US President Donald Trump revealed plans to reduce China tariffs in exchange for cooperation on TikTok’s sale.
Trump wants China to approve the sale of TikTok to a non-Chinese buyer.
He linked this proposal to ongoing national security concerns about Chinese access to US user data.
Trump said, “China will have to play a role—maybe approval—and I think they’ll do that.”
He added, “Maybe I’ll reduce tariffs a bit to get the deal done.”
US Pushes for TikTok Ownership Transfer
The US government demands ByteDance sell TikTok to a foreign buyer.
Officials fear China could use the app to access user data and influence politics abroad.
Currently, TikTok has around 170 million users in the US—its largest market.
Trump Considers Extending Sale Deadline Again
Trump said he may extend the deadline for TikTok’s sale beyond 5 April.
He had already extended the original deadline from January.
The 2024 law requires ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a US ban by 19 January 2025.
Trump Escalates Tariffs on Global Trade Partners
Trump recently announced a 25% tariff on imported cars and car parts.
The US will implement the car tariffs next week and the parts tariffs by 3 May.
Trump increased China tariffs from 10% to 20% since February.
He also imposed 25% tariffs on most imports from Canada and Mexico.
He threatened the EU with steep levies as well.
Earlier this month, he enacted a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium imports.
Global Governments Tighten Restrictions on TikTok
Governments worldwide continue to push for TikTok bans.
India banned TikTok and 58 other Chinese apps in June 2020.
Japan, Australia, and Pakistan signaled interest in banning or restricting the app.
Australia banned TikTok from federal government devices in April 2023.
The UK, EU, France, and Estonia imposed similar device bans.
Albania enforced a year-long TikTok ban at the end of 2023.
Officials blamed the platform for inciting violent behavior among youth.
TikTok Faces Criticism for Content and Youth Impact
US Republicans accused TikTok of spreading pro-Palestine and anti-Israel content.
TikTok denied the accusations.
Many countries voiced concern over TikTok’s effect on youth mental health.
