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President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to keep TikTok online in the US for 75 days, linking tariffs on China to a potential deal over the app’s ownership.
Trump postponed a deadline for TikTok’s parent company ByteDance to sell its stake in the app, suggesting that the US should receive a portion of TikTok if it continues operating beyond the deadline. He also hinted at imposing tariffs on China if a deal is not reached.
While Trump had threatened to impose tariffs on China and other countries on his first day in office, he opted to hold off on implementing levies on Chinese imports. The decision to delay tariffs against China was seen as a move to leverage a potential TikTok deal.
The executive order allowed TikTok to continue operating in the US for 75 days, during which service providers would not be held liable for violating the law. However, concerns over national security and data privacy continue to surround the app.
Despite the challenges in reaching a deal, Trump emphasized the value of TikTok and suggested that the US should receive compensation if the app continues to operate. The discussions around TikTok’s ownership have also involved prominent figures like Elon Musk.
As discussions continue around TikTok’s future in the US, the situation remains complex with implications for trade relations between the US and China. The outcome of these negotiations could have far-reaching consequences for both countries and the tech industry as a whole.
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