TikTok Shop has announced a significant upgrade to its cross-border deposit payment channels, offering sellers more flexibility in managing their accounts. In addition to existing methods like online banking, PayPal, and debit cards, the platform now accepts Alipay for mainland China-based companies and will introduce Payoneer support (available for mainland China and Hong Kong companies by mid-December).
Simplified Deposit Process
Sellers can now conveniently complete their deposit payments through the TikTok Shop Seller Center by navigating to "Assets → Deposit." The addition of Alipay and Payoneer provides distinct advantages: Alipay offers simplicity and widespread adoption in China, while Payoneer specializes in efficient cross-border fund transfers.
Compliance Requirements
The platform emphasizes that payment account ownership must precisely match the store's legal entity information, regardless of the payment method used. This identity verification requirement helps maintain financial security and operational compliance. Discrepancies may lead to deposit processing delays or withdrawal complications.
Deposit Policy Overview
Since September 15, 2022, TikTok Shop has mandated deposits from all cross-border merchants. This policy encourages compliance with platform rules, improves product quality, and enhances fulfillment services to protect all marketplace participants. Full deposit payment remains a prerequisite for cross-border operations.
The required deposit amount varies by product category. Sellers operating in multiple countries must maintain separate deposits for each market. Those selling across multiple categories pay only the highest applicable deposit amount without cumulative requirements.
Consequences of Non-Payment
Failure to maintain adequate deposits may result in operational restrictions, including order limitations, product removals, or account suspension. The platform advises sellers to prioritize timely payments to avoid service disruptions.
This deposit requirement aligns with standard e-commerce practices across major international marketplaces, serving as both a consumer protection measure and a quality control mechanism for sellers.
For merchants maintaining good standing, TikTok Shop offers full deposit refunds upon proper store closure procedures. The platform encourages all sellers, particularly new registrants, to comply with deposit requirements to ensure uninterrupted operations and global market access.