President Donald Trump said Wednesday that reducing Chinese tariffs could help promote forced sales of Tiktok just days before the app's looming US ban deadline.
The Chinese-owned platform, used by around 170 million Americans, faces an April 5 shutdown unless Beijing sells green lights to US buyers. Trump said he was willing to expand the headline, suggesting that tariff relief could be provided in exchange for China's cooperation.
“Maybe I'll reduce the number of tariffs and stuff on them to get it done,” Trump told reporters in the oval office. “You know, every point of tariff deserves more money than Tiktok. [it]maybe they'll give them tariff reductions as an example. Sounds like I'm doing. ”
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Trump's remarks come to strengthen pressure on foreign countries with new tariffs, including a 25% collection on all vehicle imports announced on Wednesday. Trump called for a ban on Tiktok during his first term, but he currently boasts more than 15 million followers on the platform, and believes he has driven a massive involvement in his reelection campaign.
The proposal to ease tariffs shows a strategic pivot from Trump's previous approach. In February, he doubled tariffs on all Chinese imports by 20%, and Beijing responded with new retaliation measures targeting US agricultural and technology companies. Despite the brink of the economy, the President has shown that securing the sale of Tiktok is a sufficient priority to justify a leverage shift.
“We're going to take the form of a deal,” Trump said. “Titktok is very popular. It's very successful. It's very good. We're going to take the form of a deal. But if it's not finished, it's not a big deal – we just expand it.
Beijing's approval is a key hold-up in negotiations and is waiting for the environment to progress, Tiktok's Chinese parent company. China's Commerce Department said it would work with Washington on the basis of mutual respect and interest during its press conference on Thursday. According to To Reuters.
Trump previously delayed enforcement of the Tiktok law for 75 days on the day of his inauguration. Presidential OrderBuy time to find a deal.
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