Former US President Donald Trump has announced a 75-day extension to TikTok’s operations in the United States, following efforts by his administration to finalize a deal that would keep the popular short-video platform alive amid national security concerns and ongoing trade tensions with China.
Top Highlights of the TikTok Deal Extension
- Executive Order Signed:
Trump posted on Truth Social that an Executive Order has been signed, giving TikTok 75 more days to operate while negotiations continue. - Deal in Progress:
The agreement reportedly aims to spin off TikTok’s US operations into a separate American-owned entity, with ByteDance retaining less than 20% stake. - China Disapproval:
The deal hit a roadblock after China expressed discontent over Trump’s recent reciprocal tariffs, casting doubt over the approval from Beijing. - Hope for Good Faith Talks:
Trump said he remains hopeful about continuing “good faith” trade negotiations with China despite their discontent. - Security and Tariffs:
He defended the new tariffs, calling them a “powerful economic tool” necessary for national security and balanced trade. - Deal Almost Finalized:
Sources revealed to Reuters that by Wednesday, most aspects of the deal were finalized, pending final Chinese regulatory approval. - ByteDance Responds:
TikTok parent company ByteDance confirmed ongoing discussions, stating: “An agreement has not been executed. There are key matters to be resolved. Any agreement will be subject to approval under Chinese law.” - Chinese Embassy Reacts:
China reiterated its stance, saying: “We oppose practices that violate the basic principles of the market economy.” - Last-Minute Rescue:
This executive order comes just a day before the previously delayed ban was scheduled to take effect. - Background Context:
The original mandate came under President Biden, who signed a law requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok US or face a ban. Trump, upon returning to office in January, delayed the ban by 75 days to allow room for negotiation.
What This Means for TikTok Users
- TikTok remains operational in the U.S. for at least the next 75 days.
- A final deal would potentially transfer control of TikTok US to American stakeholders, improving trust over data security and user privacy.
- However, unresolved issues with China’s regulatory approval could delay or derail the agreement.
Trump Official Statement
“My administration has been working very hard on a deal to SAVE TIKTOK… This proves that tariffs are the most powerful economic tool and very important to our national security!”
My Administration has been working very hard on a Deal to SAVE TIKTOK, and we have made tremendous progress. The Deal requires more work to ensure all necessary approvals are signed, which is why I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75…
— Donald J. Trump Posts From His Truth Social (@TrumpDailyPosts) April 4, 2025
