MSME Ministry awaits seller data from TikTok over alleged account freezes and fund withholding

The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) is waiting for complete data from sellers who claim their accounts were frozen and their balances withheld by TikTok Shop before facilitating a meeting with the platform. Temmy Satya Permana, Deputy for Small Business at the Ministry, stated that the government needs to verify the identities of the sellers and the amounts involved, following reports that the number of affected sellers has grown to approximately 500. The issue first emerged between 2022 and 2023, and while the government previously mediated a resolution for some complaints, new reports have surfaced. The matter gained further attention after the House of Representatives Commission VII received a complaint from a seller who claimed they were unable to withdraw Rp800 million since January 2023, despite the goods having been received by buyers. The Commission plans to summon digital platform managers, including TikTok and Tokopedia, to seek a comprehensive clarification on the matter.