United States President Donald Trump has confirmed that the United States and China have reached a long-awaited agreement concerning the future of TikTok, the Chinese-owned video-sharing app that has been at the center of a high-profile national security debate.
The breakthrough follows months of diplomatic and legislative tension, stemming from a federal law requiring TikTok to either be sold to a U.S.-controlled entity or face a nationwide ban. The law, aimed at addressing security risks linked to foreign ownership of user data, was set to take effect on January 19, 2025 just one day before Trump’s inauguration for his new term.
While President Trump had initially backed the ban, citing concerns over data privacy and potential surveillance by the Chinese government, his stance shifted significantly after the 2024 presidential election. He credited TikTok as a key platform for engaging young voters, prompting a pause in enforcement of the ban.
The newly announced agreement is expected to facilitate a transition to U.S. based control of TikTok, potentially through a strategic acquisition by an American technology or investment firm. Details of the arrangement are still being finalized, and Trump indicated he plans to hold further discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping to confirm the deal’s terms.
