TikTok says it now has more than 30 million monthly users in the UK. That’s nearly half of the UK population using the short-form video app, according to TikTok's internal data shared this week. This figure also makes the UK its largest market in Europe.

TikTok reports 1.5 million UK businesses now use the app

The company also says more than 1.5 million British businesses are now active on TikTok. This includes small retailers, creators, and major consumer brands. According to TikTok, these businesses contribute around £1.6 billion to the UK economy.

The company says its business is growing in the UK market. Adam Presser, TikTok UK director and global head of operations and trust and safety, pointed to this as part of the app’s value proposition to the UK economy. “Whether through direct investment in jobs and innovation or the wider economic contribution from millions of British businesses on TikTok, we’re pleased to be increasing our investment and presence here in the UK,” Presser said.

TikTok also claims it employs 3,000 people across the UK and continues to invest in local teams.

UK political scrutiny continues, especially around child safety

This update comes at a time when UK lawmakers are debating TikTok’s role in national security and youth safety. Cabinet Minister Pete Kyle recently hinted at restrictions that could include a phone curfew for children.

As in the United States, UK officials have also raised concerns about the app’s ties to China and the potential for it to be misused as a surveillance or propaganda tool.

In response, TikTok continues to promote its safety and data protection efforts. The company says it is investing £10 billion over ten years into Project Clover, a program focused on safeguarding European data. According to TikTok, the initiative includes advanced data controls and on-site audits, with UK-specific protections integrated.

The platform also highlighted teen account settings as part of its safety measures: users under 16 are set to private by default and cannot use direct messaging. TikTok says it offers tools for families, including digital wellbeing features and custom parental controls.

TikTok appears to be doubling down on its economic and social impact in the UK. This could be a strategic way to reinforce its importance in the UK market amid ongoing concerns around regulation, data security, and brand safety.

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