22-1-2025 (WASHINGTON) President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday granting TikTok a 75-day extension to continue its US operations, offering temporary relief to the platform’s 170 million American users whilst national security concerns remain unresolved.
The social media giant, owned by Chinese parent company ByteDance, had faced an imminent ban following legislation passed by Congress requiring its sale to a US buyer by 19 January. The president’s intervention comes after a brief service interruption over the weekend, during which the platform was inaccessible for more than 12 hours.
Trump, who has amassed nearly 15 million followers since joining the platform last year, expressed a “warm spot” for TikTok during the announcement. The president’s relationship with the app has been notably strengthened by its role in helping him connect with younger voters. Earlier in the day, TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew was spotted amongst American tech leaders at Trump’s inauguration.
The executive order directs the US Attorney General to suspend enforcement of the ban for 75 days, allowing the administration to “determine the appropriate course forward”. However, despite the platform’s restoration for existing users, both Google and Apple have maintained their removal of TikTok from their respective app stores.
In a potentially significant development, Beijing has signalled a possible shift in its stance regarding TikTok’s divestment. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning indicated that business operations and acquisitions should be guided by market principles, though subject to Chinese regulations.
Trump has proposed an unprecedented arrangement wherein the US government would broker a deal for 50% control of TikTok, suggesting the platform could be worth up to $500 billion with American partnership. “Every rich person has called me about acquiring the platform,” Trump stated, emphasising the necessity of US involvement for the platform’s value.
The situation has sparked debate among legal experts regarding presidential authority to override existing legislation. Sarah Kreps, director of Cornell University’s Tech Policy Institute, questioned whether Trump possesses the power to extend a law already in effect, noting that “executive orders cannot override existing laws”.
The presidential intervention has also created tension with congressional leadership. House Speaker Mike Johnson maintained his expectation of “a full sale”, describing ByteDance’s ownership as “a very dangerous thing”..
