TikTok Shop launches SOAR Together Program for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in ASEAN
In collaboration with the ASEAN Foundation and the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC), TikTok Shop has introduced the SOAR Together Program in Southeast Asia. The initiative aims to empower micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by equipping them with skills in e-commerce, live selling, digital marketing, and business growth through the TikTok Shop platform.
“MSMEs play a crucial role in driving economic development in the ASEAN region. Especially for underserved communities, they have the potential to make a real impact. We are proud to partner with the ASEAN Foundation and ASEAN-BAC to support MSMEs with skills for business expansion through TikTok Shop. This program is grounded in inclusivity and sustainability and was launched as part of Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship,” said Ms. Chanida Klyphun, Director of Southeast Asia Public Policy at TikTok.
Empowering Underserved MSMEs Led by Women, Youth, and Minority Groups
TikTok Shop, the ASEAN Foundation, and ASEAN-BAC aim to help MSMEs accelerate digital transformation and economic integration by providing access to relevant expertise and resources. This support will help MSMEs not only grow in their local markets but also achieve broader, long-term success across the region.
MSMEs are essential to job creation, income generation, and local economic stability. In the ASEAN region, they account for between 97.2% and 99.9% of all businesses, totaling about 70 million enterprises. Despite their significance, MSMEs often face challenges such as limited financial resources, insufficient business know-how, and poor market connectivity that hinder their growth and sustainability.
As such, all interested MSMEs operating in ASEAN countries, including Myanmar, are encouraged to apply for the program by April 30, 2025. Selected participants will gain access to practical digital business skills customized to their needs, delivered by TikTok Shop experts. Additionally, the program will offer hands-on training focused on live selling via the TikTok Shop platform, as well as networking opportunities with dynamic MSMEs, policymakers, and other relevant stakeholders in the region. Detailed information about the ASEAN SOAR Together Program can be accessed [here].
Opening New Pathways for Supporting MSMEs
TikTok Shop has become a unique space where meaningful exchanges between buyers and sellers can take place—enabling the discovery of exceptional products and vendors without leaving the app. Through this program, TikTok pledges to deliver tailored support and resources to small businesses and creators, contributing to inclusive and thriving communities. The ASEAN SOAR Together initiative represents a vital step in TikTok’s broader commitment to addressing the individual needs of MSMEs and creators in Southeast Asia.
The program aligns with the ASEAN Strategic Action Plan for SME Development 2016–2025, which aims to elevate domestic businesses into globally competitive, innovative enterprises. Furthermore, the ASEAN Economic Community Blueprint 2025 recognizes information and communication technology (ICT) as a driving force for economic and social transformation in the region.
“ASEAN Foundation is constantly working to empower communities across the region in meaningful ways. The collaboration with TikTok Shop and ASEAN-BAC is one such effort—supporting MSMEs, especially those led by women, youth, and marginalized groups, by providing them with digital skills and market access. This not only fosters their development but also contributes to building a more interconnected ASEAN. It’s not just about economic inclusion, but also about ensuring equitable opportunities for everyone in today’s digital economy. Partnerships like this show that we are building a resilient, inclusive ASEAN where no one is left behind,” said Dr. Piti Srisangnam, Executive Director of the ASEAN Foundation.
“The partnership between TikTok Shop, the ASEAN Foundation, and ASEAN-BAC is a vital step in energizing MSMEs in the region. As the backbone of our economies, MSMEs face numerous challenges in adopting digital technologies. This program not only offers expertise in digitalization, e-commerce, and live selling, but also provides access to regional markets—creating significant business impact. By prioritizing businesses led by women, youth, and underrepresented groups, the program shows that digital transformation can drive equitable and accountable development. ASEAN SOAR Together stands as a model of public-private collaboration that can translate policy vision into real economic benefits, while strengthening ASEAN’s global competitiveness in the digital economy,” said Tan Sri Nazir Razak, Chair of the ASEAN Business Advisory Council (ASEAN-BAC).
