Donald Trump, who will officially assume the role of President of the United States tomorrow, has announced plans to postpone the enforcement of a law that would effectively ban the social media platform TikTok.
Trump stated his intention to issue an executive order on Monday, following his inauguration, to extend the timeline for the law’s implementation. The law, passed nearly a year ago, mandates TikTok to sever ties with its Chinese ownership or face a nationwide ban. Trump explained that the delay would provide time to reach an agreement that addresses national security concerns.
“The order will also confirm that no company which played a role in preventing TikTok’s ban before my executive order will face penalties,” Trump clarified in his statement.
A Joint Ownership Proposal
Outlining a potential resolution, Trump proposed the formation of a joint company that would allow TikTok to continue operating in the United States.
“I want the United States to hold 50% ownership in a joint venture. This way, we save TikTok, ensure it’s in good hands, and allow it to thrive. Without U.S. consent, TikTok will not exist. With our consent, it could be worth hundreds of billions, or even trillions of dollars. My initial idea is a joint company composed of current owners and/or new stakeholders, where the U.S. receives a 50% stake,” Trump explained.
Trump has previously expressed a more lenient stance towards TikTok, contrasting with the strict measures introduced under the outgoing administration. He recently highlighted his own reach on the platform, which has played a role in shaping his perspective on its utility.
TikTok’s Gradual Blockage
By the end of 18 January, TikTok began becoming inaccessible in the United States, a direct result of the law passed in early 2024. The legislation requires TikTok to disentangle itself from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, citing security risks posed by potential data access by the Chinese government.
Mike Waltz, Trump’s nominee for National Security Advisor, also expressed optimism about the platform’s future in the U.S. “The president-elect will find a way to keep TikTok accessible to Americans,” Waltz remarked.
Balancing Security and Growth
The compromise Trump proposes could alleviate concerns over data privacy and national security while preserving the platform’s presence in the United States. TikTok’s vast user base and cultural significance have made its potential ban a contentious issue. If implemented, the plan would mark a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Chinese-owned technology companies and could set a precedent for future dealings.
As Trump prepares to take office, the handling of TikTok is likely to become one of the administration’s early focal points, reflecting broader debates over technology, national security, and international business relations.
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