Trump Signals Potential Extension of TikTok Sale Deadline
President Trump suggests extending the April 5 deadline for TikTok's sale or U.S. ban, citing significant buyer interest and a possible role for China in the deal.
- President Trump stated he would 'probably' extend the April 5 deadline for TikTok's sale or ban if no deal is reached by then.
- The 75-day extension was granted in January after ByteDance missed the initial deadline to divest from the U.S. operations of TikTok.
- Trump highlighted strong interest from potential buyers, including notable figures such as Frank McCourt, Kevin O’Leary, and Alexis Ohanian, while also mentioning the possibility of a U.S.-China joint venture.
- Concerns over national security and data privacy have driven the push for ByteDance to divest fully from TikTok, with U.S. lawmakers emphasizing a total severance from Chinese ownership.
- The law allows for a maximum 90-day extension if ByteDance demonstrates progress toward a sale, but Trump expressed optimism that a resolution could be reached before the deadline.