TikTok Deal Receives Approval from Chinese Leadership, Details Pending
President Donald Trump announced on September 19, 2025, that Chinese President Xi Jinping has approved a deal concerning TikTok, the popular short-video platform owned by ByteDance. The agreement aims to restructure TikTok’s U.S. operations under a consortium of American investors, though specific terms of the deal have not yet been disclosed. ByteDance issued a statement reaffirming its intention to ensure TikTok remains available to U.S. users through this new U.S.-based entity. The company expressed gratitude to both Presidents Xi and Trump for their roles in facilitating the arrangement.
Background: National Security Concerns and TikTok Ban
This development follows a protracted dispute between the U.S. and China over TikTok’s operations. Earlier this year, the Trump administration imposed a ban on TikTok in the United States, citing national security risks related to user data and foreign influence. However, the ban was repeatedly delayed amid widespread opposition from consumers and content creators. Negotiations between the two governments have sought a resolution that would mitigate security concerns while allowing TikTok to continue operating in the U.S. market.
Consortium Ownership and Governance Structure
According to a report from The Wall Street Journal, the consortium set to acquire an 80% stake in TikTok’s U.S. operations includes major investors such as Oracle, Silver Lake, and Andreessen Horowitz. The remaining 20% would remain with Chinese shareholders. The new governance framework is expected to feature a majority U.S.-based board, with one member appointed directly by the U.S. government, aiming to provide enhanced oversight and address national security concerns.
“The call was a very good one, we will be speaking again by phone, appreciate the TikTok approval,” President Trump stated on his social media platform Truth Social following a phone conversation with President Xi.
Despite these announcements, neither the U.S. nor Chinese administrations have released formal details or timelines regarding the implementation of the deal. Industry observers remain cautious, noting that final regulatory approvals and operational transitions could still face hurdles.
