Former President Donald Trump has confirmed that April 5, 2025, is the deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok's U.S. operations or face a ban. This deadline comes after an executive order was signed in January 2025, aimed at addressing national security concerns surrounding the popular app. A 75-day period has been given for ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations, following previous extensions and legal challenges.
In recent conversations, Trump mentioned he would "probably" extend the deadline if necessary. He expressed optimism about the ongoing interest in TikTok. During a discussion on March 6, he noted that "a lot of interest in TikTok" might justify an extension. He also emphasized the hope for approval from China regarding any potential deal.
Legal support for this deadline comes from the Protecting From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, passed in April 2024. The Supreme Court upheld this law in January 2025, allowing Trump to extend the deadline by 90 days if evidence of sale efforts is shown. Additionally, the Supreme Court's ruling serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China regarding technology and data security.
Currently, the Attorney General has been directed not to enforce the law during the 75-day hold period. However, any extension would require proof that ByteDance is actively working toward a sale.
The Attorney General won't enforce the law during the 75-day hold, but extensions need proof of progress from ByteDance.
Several prospective buyers have emerged in recent weeks. Notable bidders include Alexis Ohanian, who joined a bid led by former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt. YouTube star MrBeast is reportedly part of a bid led by Jesse Tley. Major companies like Oracle and Microsoft are also involved in discussions about acquiring TikTok.
In addition, Trump has suggested the possibility of the U.S. government taking partial ownership of TikTok. He mentioned a potential 50% ownership to guarantee the app continues operating in the U.S.
However, there have been no reported negotiations between ByteDance and any buyers, causing frustration among suitors. Confusion remains regarding the leadership of negotiations, and Beijing's silence adds to the uncertainty surrounding the sale.
