Trump Grants Third Extension for TikTok Sale Deadline
In a recent move, former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order extending the deadline for ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, by another 90 days. This extension allows ByteDance additional time to finalize the sale of its popular short-form video app to an American buyer.
Trump announced the extension on Thursday, stating, "I've just signed the Executive Order extending the Deadline for the TikTok closing for 90 days (September 17, 2025). Thank you for your attention to this matter!"
US Administration Emphasizes Data Security and App Accessibility
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the administration's priority is maintaining TikTok's accessibility for Americans while ensuring data security. She remarked, "President Trump does not want TikTok to go dark. This 90-day extension gives us time to work toward closing the deal so the American people can continue using TikTok with confidence that their data is safe and secure."
Widespread Use and Growing User Base in the U.S.
TikTok currently boasts 170 million users within the United States. Despite earlier national security concerns cited by legislation enacted during the Biden administration, public support for banning the app has waned. The initial ban had prompted users to explore alternative Chinese social media platforms, but with this extension, many appear to be returning to TikTok.
Background on TikTok’s Sale and Challenges
Following earlier executive actions, ByteDance was initially given 75 days to identify a U.S.-based buyer — a deadline that expired on April 5. During that period, several companies showed interest. Amazon reportedly made an offer, and other contenders included Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian (in partnership with billionaire Frank McCourt), Perplexity AI, and former Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin.
Yet, no formal deal has materialized, especially after increased restrictions imposed on China complicated negotiations. ByteDance has maintained a degree of silence regarding its stance on the sale and the prospects of a deal moving forward.
The Legal Landscape and Policy Reversals
Trump’s current position represents a shift from his previous term when he signed an executive order intending to ban TikTok outright. That ban, however, was overturned by courts. Today, the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld legislation requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok to an American entity or face continued prohibition.
The demand for a U.S.-based ownership stems from national security concerns related to data privacy and the company’s Beijing headquarters. TikTok, for its part, denies any data security risks and insists no American user information is stored in China.
Looking Ahead
With the new deadline set for September 17, 2025, it remains uncertain whether ByteDance will complete a sale or find alternative solutions to continue operating in the U.S. TikTok has yet to comment publicly on the recent extension.
