President Trump is set to extend the third deadline for the TikTok ban for the third time, as the White House and China get ready for trade discussions.
The latest extension concerning the sale of the widely used video-sharing app in the U.S. is set to expire on June 19. However, tensions between the two nations regarding tariffs are expected to escalate this week.
“The president indicated he might announce another extension if necessary,” a government official familiar with his thoughts mentioned on Tuesday.
The official also noted that China is likely using this situation as leverage in ongoing trade negotiations.
A Wall Street banker involved in the potential sale of the app to U.S. investors expressed that Trump was persuaded by TikTok, suggesting that the app could be removed from the app store by June 19.
A spokesperson from the White House did not respond to a request for comment.
TikTok enjoys massive popularity but faces criticism over allegations of collecting U.S. data for the Chinese government’s surveillance efforts. The company has denied these claims.
Meanwhile, the Biden administration has enacted a Divest or Ban law that is scheduled to take effect on January 19, just before Trump took office.
Trump responded swiftly by signing an executive order that deferred the 90-day ban and announced an additional extension in early April, as U.S. investor groups were working to establish a framework for a U.S. majority stake in TikTok.
If the deal goes through, Oracle, a tech company founded by Trump’s ally Larry Ellison, would lead a consortium of private sector investors.
This situation unfolds as Trump initiated a “liberation day” tariff trade war with significant sanctions against China, which recently dropped to 30% as both sides began negotiating final contracts.
Interestingly, Trump, who was once a vocal critic of TikTok and sought a ban during his first term, has since changed his stance. He now believes the app, particularly popular among younger Americans, could play a role in his 2024 campaign success.
