How to Make Money on Douyin in 2025

In the world of short video platforms, Douyin has taken the digital space by storm. Many people know about TikTok, but not everyone realizes that Douyin is the original version of TikTok, specifically created for the Chinese market. As we step into 2025, Douyin continues to be a powerful platform not only for entertainment but also for making money. If you’re looking to understand what Douyin is and how you can earn money from it, this guide will help you get started.

What is Douyin?

Douyin (抖音) is a short video platform developed by the Chinese tech giant ByteDance. It was launched in September 2016 and quickly became one of the most popular apps in China. While TikTok is its international version, Douyin remains exclusive to China and operates under a different set of rules, features, and algorithms.

How Douyin is Different from TikTok

Exclusive to China: Douyin is not available outside of China unless you use a Chinese Apple ID or download the APK separately.
Advanced Features: Douyin offers more e-commerce and monetization tools than TikTok, making it a better platform for influencers and businesses.
Different Algorithms: The recommendation system in Douyin is designed for the Chinese audience, with a stronger focus on localized content.
Better Integration with E-Commerce: Douyin has deep integration with Taobao, JD.com, and other e-commerce platforms, allowing users to buy products directly within the app.

How to Earn Money from Douyin in 2025

If you’re wondering how to turn Douyin into a source of income, there are multiple ways to do so. Whether you’re a content creator, a business owner, or a marketer, Douyin provides numerous opportunities to make money. Here are some of the best ways to earn from Douyin in 2025:

Live Streaming with Virtual Gifts

Live streaming is one of the biggest ways to earn money on Douyin. Viewers can send virtual gifts during a live stream, which can be converted into real cash. The platform takes a small commission, but top streamers can make thousands of dollars per month.

How to Make Money with Live Streaming:

Build a strong audience by posting engaging short videos regularly.
Engage with your viewers and encourage them to send virtual gifts.
Host Q&A sessions, live performances, or interactive games.
Promote trending topics and discuss viral content to attract more viewers.

Affiliate Marketing and E-Commerce Sales

Douyin is deeply connected with e-commerce, allowing users to sell products directly through their videos and live streams.

Steps to Make Money with Affiliate Marketing:

Sign up for the Douyin E-commerce program.
Choose trending products to promote in your videos.
Add product links to your videos and encourage followers to buy.
Earn commissions on every sale made through your link.

Influencers who successfully promote products can make a steady income through commission-based sales.

Selling Your Own Products or Services

If you have a business, Douyin can be an excellent platform to sell your products or services. Many Chinese entrepreneurs use Douyin to promote everything from cosmetics to online courses.

Best Selling Categories on Douyin:

Fashion and Beauty Products
Health and Fitness Products
Educational Courses
Digital Products (E-books, Tutorials, etc.)

Douyin Creator Fund

Douyin offers a Creator Fund, similar to TikTok, where eligible creators get paid based on video engagement and views. While this is not the primary way to earn, it can add an extra source of income for content creators.

Eligibility for the Douyin Creator Fund:

Consistently post engaging videos.
Have a good number of followers and video views.
Follow Douyin’s community guidelines.

Dropshipping on Douyin

Dropshipping is another effective way to make money. Since Douyin integrates well with e-commerce platforms, you can set up a dropshipping store and promote products through short videos.

How to Start Dropshipping on Douyin:

Find a reliable supplier on Alibaba or Taobao.
Create a store on Douyin’s e-commerce section.
Make engaging videos showcasing the products.
Process orders through the supplier and earn a profit margin.

Membership and Paid Content

Some creators offer premium content that users can access only after paying a membership fee. This can be useful for educators, fitness trainers, or exclusive entertainment content creators.

Ideas for Paid Content:

Exclusive tutorials and educational videos
Personalized coaching sessions
Behind-the-scenes content

Tips to Succeed on Douyin in 2025

If you want to make money on Douyin, you need to stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

Focus on High-Quality Content

Douyin’s algorithm favors engaging and high-quality videos. Invest in good lighting, clear audio, and professional editing to make your videos stand out.

Be Consistent

Post regularly to keep your audience engaged. Aim for at least 3-5 videos per week to stay relevant.

Follow Trends and Use Hashtags

Stay updated with the latest trends in China and use popular hashtags to increase the visibility of your videos.

Engage with Your Audience

Reply to comments, host live Q&A sessions, and interact with your followers to build a loyal fan base.

Optimize for the Chinese Audience

Douyin users prefer localized content. If you’re targeting the Chinese market, use Mandarin in your videos and focus on topics relevant to Chinese culture.

Conclusion

Douyin is more than just a short video app; it’s a powerful money-making platform. Whether you choose live streaming, e-commerce, brand collaborations, or affiliate marketing, there are plenty of opportunities to earn money on Douyin in 2025. The key to success is consistency, high-quality content, and engaging with your audience.

If you’re serious about making money on Douyin, start today and take advantage of the growing digital economy in China!

How to Make Money on Douyin in 2025 – JobKad