The future of TikTok in the US appears closer to resolution as President Trump announced impending talks with China, indicating a deal is “pretty much” agreed upon. These crucial discussions are set to begin early next week.
The President’s remarks included the possibility of reciprocal visits with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, emphasizing the diplomatic weight of the TikTok divestiture. The current September 17 deadline, extended for the third time by Trump, provides a final window for ByteDance to find a US buyer.
A previous deal to establish a US-owned TikTok entity was reportedly put on hold due to China’s adverse reaction to new US tariffs. This historical context illuminates the complexities of achieving a mutually agreeable solution.
Despite expressing a good rapport with President Xi, Trump conceded that China’s ultimate approval remains uncertain. This uncertainty is amplified by the ongoing debate surrounding Trump’s use of executive orders, which Senator Mark Warner claims are circumventing legal mandates.