On Saturday, China refuted claims that TikTok had solicited businesses to hand over data. This came after TikTok faced a hefty fine of 530 million euros (about $600 million) from the European Union for mishandling personal data.
The fine was imposed as the platform transferred user data from Europe to China, raising concerns about whether it could be accessed by Chinese authorities.
This penalty marks the second largest fine by the EU following investigations into TikTok’s data transfer practices.
TikTok, owned by a Chinese company, announced plans to appeal the ruling.
China’s foreign ministry stated that the country “never required businesses or individuals to collect or store data by illegal means” and urged the European Union, along with Ireland—where TikTok’s European headquarters is based—to ensure a fair business environment for all companies.
TikTok operates under the scrutiny related to national security, with worries that Beijing could access user data globally and fears of misinformation spreading through the platform.
A number of nations, including Pakistan, Nepal, and France, have imposed temporary bans on TikTok.
This recent fine could intensify pressure on US social media platforms as well.
In 2024, the US Congress enacted legislation mandating the sale of TikTok’s US operations or facing a ban.
US President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for selling the app, which is popular among 170 million American users, twice, with the latest deadline now set for June 19th.
Beijing has repeatedly denied that it accesses data from foreign companies and insists that it adheres to local laws.
