Trump Eyes TikTok Deal Talks With Beijing Leaders Next Week/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Trump announced plans to start talks with China next week regarding a potential TikTok deal. The U.S. seeks a sale of TikTok’s American assets amid ongoing tensions and tariff disputes. While a framework exists, approval from China remains uncertain.
Trump TikTok Deal Talks Quick Looks
- Trump says TikTok deal talks with China start soon.
- U.S. wants TikTok’s American assets sold off.
- Trump cites positive relationship with President Xi.
- Deadline for TikTok divestment extended to September 17.
- Previous deal stalled over Chinese objections to U.S. tariffs.
- Trump “not confident” but optimistic about agreement.
- TikTok deal seen as beneficial for both nations.
Deep Look
Trump Says U.S. Will Launch TikTok Deal Talks With China Next Week
U.S. President Donald Trump announced Friday that the United States plans to initiate negotiations with China early next week over a potential deal for the popular short-video app TikTok, signaling fresh momentum in efforts to resolve one of the highest-profile tech standoffs between Washington and Beijing.
Speaking with reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said talks could begin as soon as Monday or Tuesday, possibly involving direct discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping or senior representatives.
“I think we’re gonna start Monday or Tuesday… talking to China, perhaps President Xi or one of his representatives, but we pretty much have a deal,” Trump said.
TikTok Sale Talks Back In Motion
Trump’s comments come amid ongoing concerns in Washington about national security risks linked to TikTok’s China-based parent company, ByteDance. The U.S. has insisted that TikTok’s American assets must be sold to a U.S.-based entity to safeguard user data and reduce the app’s perceived influence risks.
Last month, Trump extended to September 17 a deadline for ByteDance to divest TikTok’s U.S. operations, giving negotiators additional time to secure a deal. Earlier this year, an agreement was reportedly close, proposing that TikTok’s U.S. operations spin off into a new company controlled and managed by American investors. However, those talks stalled after China signaled disapproval, particularly after Trump unveiled steep tariffs targeting Chinese goods.
Optimism, But No Guarantees
When pressed about the likelihood of securing China’s approval for the deal, Trump struck a cautious yet hopeful tone. “I’m not confident, but I think so. President Xi and I have a great relationship, and I think it’s good for them. I think the deal is good for China and it’s good for us,” he said.
Experts view the potential TikTok agreement as a significant bellwether for broader U.S.-China relations, which remain strained over trade issues, technology competition, and geopolitical tensions. A successful resolution could help reduce friction and offer clarity for TikTok’s millions of American users.
While both sides appear open to negotiations, the outcome remains uncertain, hinging on complex regulatory, political, and security considerations. Observers will watch closely for developments once talks officially commence in the coming days.
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