TikTok is cutting jobs across its global operations as it shifts to using Artificial Intelligence for content moderation. This change has led to the layoffs of hundreds of employees in Malaysia and the UK.
According to Reuters, over 700 jobs were initially expected to be cut, but TikTok later clarified the number would be less than 500. The affected employees, mainly in content moderation, were reportedly notified of their dismissal via email.
A TikTok spokesperson confirmed the layoffs, stating they are part of efforts to improve the company’s global content moderation model. The company plans to invest $2 billion this year in trust and safety, focusing on AI to enhance efficiency.
Job cuts in the UK reflect similar trends, with at least 125 employees notified their positions are at risk, representing 25% of TikTok’s UK moderation division. An internal email to staff cited increased moderation demands and the complexity of harmful content as key factors behind the decision.
TikTok Restructures Global Operations, Emphasizes AI for Content Moderation
The memo highlighted TikTok’s increasing reliance on advanced technology to boost accuracy, consistency, and scalability in content moderation. It also stressed the importance of collaborating with third-party partners, managing fluctuating content volumes, and optimizing resource planning.
“This restructuring will strengthen our regional operations, making us more efficient, effective, and resilient. It allows us to tackle more complex challenges while continuing our mission to provide a safe environment where users can inspire creativity and bring joy,” the memo stated.
These UK layoffs follow TikTok Information Technologies UK’s 2023 turnover of $4.57 billion, a 74.6% increase from 2022. Despite this growth, the company reported a $1.37 billion operating loss, more than doubling the previous year’s loss. Its negative operating margin also expanded to 29.9%, up from 19.6% in 2022.
This restructuring follows earlier reports that TikTok planned to significantly reduce its operations and marketing workforce.
