Since January 2024, U.S. authorities have demanded that the Chinese company ByteDance sell TikTok to an American owner; otherwise, the app faces a ban due to national security concerns. Washington fears that Chinese authorities could use TikTok to collect data and influence users.
Previously, Reuters reported that the private investment firm Blackstone is considering investing in TikTok’s U.S. operations. Potential buyers also include Susquehanna International Group and General Atlantic, which already hold stakes in ByteDance.
Trump emphasized his desire to keep the app in the U.S. However, he did not rule out extending the deal deadline if an agreement is not reached by April 5. He also noted that China could play a significant role in approving the sale and hinted at possible concessions on trade tariffs to ensure successful negotiations.