EU – TikTok: Launches Fulfilled by TikTok Service for Asian Vendors Selling Into EU

TikTok is introducing a new service, fulfilled by TikTok, for Asian-based online vendors, allowing them to transfer their logistics processes to the TikTok platform. The Fulfilled by TikTok service will be available to vendors through different TikTok warehouses currently available in Germany, France, Spain, and Italy. 

TikTok is continuously expanding its portfolio of services in Europe. The introduction of new types of services doesn’t limit itself only to EU-based vendors; it is global. The FBTikTok for Asian vendors is a strong sign of this. Now Asian online merchants will be able to transport their goods into TikTok EU warehouses, and from that moment on, TikTok will be responsible for storage, delivery, and returns. 

In addition to core logistics services, the platform provides facilitation services that connect Asian vendors with European influencers and content creators to enhance the visibility of vendors’ products listed on the platform. 

The introduction of TikTok’s new service inevitably raises compliance questions. Some of these questions are: 

• Is the Asian-based vendor responsible for registering for VAT in the EU Member State (s) where it stores its goods? 
• Who is responsible for VAT collection for intra-EU sales? 
• Is the platform operator deemed a supplier for intra-EU distance sales? 
• What if the non-resident vendor surpasses any national MS sales threshold? 

If you, as a foreign e-commerce seller, have any tax-related questions regarding supplies made through the TikTok marketplace, please reach out. We have handled hundreds of VAT registrations, filings, and payments, and acted as a point of reference for sellers who make their supplies through e-commerce marketplaces.