Since January 2025, TikTok has remained banned in the United States following a Supreme Court directive, with the U.S. government citing national security concerns over user data potentially reaching the Chinese government via its parent company, ByteDance. The U.S. House of Representatives had previously approved a bill linked to the ban, warning China to divest ownership of the app or face a permanent prohibition. Despite reports that Elon Musk might acquire TikTok, no such deal materialized. The ban has sparked widespread debate about data privacy, national security, and access to the popular platform among U.S. youth.
Now, the Trump administration is reportedly considering lifting the ban. President Trump stated that he plans to engage directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss the issue. He noted that reinstating TikTok would be welcomed by American users and indicated plans to establish strict agreements with the company regarding data protection, user savings, and other safeguards. Trump also shared updates on his Truth Social platform, highlighting ongoing negotiations with TikTok to comply with U.S. regulations.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that discussions around a framework agreement have been held as part of broader tariff and trade negotiations, allowing TikTok to continue operations in the U.S. unless the deal falls through, in which case the app could face permanent closure by September 17. Bessent warned that without concessions from China on tariffs and trade, the ban could remain in effect. Additional discussions are expected in the coming days, including cooperation between the two nations on issues such as money laundering and illegal fentanyl trafficking.