Trump Extends TikTok Ban Deadline for Third Time
In a significant move, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday granting TikTok an additional 90-day reprieve from the nationwide ban or forced sale in the United States. This marks the third extension, pushing the deadline to September 17, 2025, allowing the Chinese-owned social media platform more time to secure a buyer or face being blocked nationwide.
Announcing the decision on his social media platform, Trump stated, "I’ve just signed the Executive Order extending the Deadline for the TikTok closing for 90 days (September 17, 2025)." This latest postponement follows two prior executive orders: the first on his very first day back in office, shortly after the US Supreme Court upheld the federal ban, and a second extension set to expire on June 19.
The Backdrop: National Security Concerns and Legal Battles
Trump first raised alarms over TikTok in 2020, spotlighting national security risks arising from its Chinese ownership. His concerns won bipartisan backing, culminating in Congress overwhelmingly voting to ban the platform last year. Despite TikTok's legal challenges, the Supreme Court upheld the ban, intensifying the pressure on the app’s US operations.
Ironically, Trump softened his stance last year after joining TikTok during his presidential campaign, rapidly amassing almost 15 million followers. He even invited TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, to his Mar-a-Lago estate, where Chew later participated in the inauguration proceedings.
Ongoing Negotiations and Trade Dynamics
TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, has engaged in persistent discussions with the US government, though it noted that any agreement would remain subject to Chinese legal approval. Earlier reports suggested that a potential deal faltered when China delayed approval following new US tariffs on Chinese imports.
Trump appeared to acknowledge leveraging trade policies to influence TikTok negotiations. He remarked, "We have a situation with TikTok where China will probably say we’ll approve a deal, but will you do something on the tariffs? The tariffs give us great power to negotiate."
Who’s Eyeing TikTok’s US Operations?
As the countdown continues, numerous US-based investors are keen on acquiring TikTok’s American business. Reported bidders include a consortium of private equity firms, investment giants like Blackstone, retail heavyweights Amazon and Walmart, billionaire Frank McCourt, a cryptocurrency foundation, and even the founder of the adult content platform OnlyFans.
What’s Next for TikTok?
TikTok's future in the US hinges on whether ByteDance can finalize a sale amid complex geopolitical and regulatory landscapes. With the September deadline looming, the coming months will be crucial for the platform's 170 million American users and the broader digital ecosystem.
