Donald Trump’s efforts to negotiate a transfer of TikTok’s ownership from China to the US have yet to produce a resolution as of Friday, following a phone discussion with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Both nations have been engaged in contentious trade negotiations, particularly regarding TikTok, which faces the possibility of a ban in the US due to national security concerns.
Trump indicated earlier this week that a deal had been reached for TikTok to be transferred to US control, but specifics of the arrangement remain vague. This recent call marked the first direct communication between Trump and Xi since June, during which Xi underscored the significance of US-China relations. The Chinese government reiterated its stance on the TikTok situation, emphasizing the importance of adhering to market regulations and balancing interests in negotiations.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump characterized the conversation as productive, noting progress on various issues, including trade, fentanyl, the Ukraine crisis, and the TikTok deal. Both leaders are expected to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in South Korea in late October, with Trump planning a visit to China in early 2024. However, China has not confirmed the timing of any in-person meeting.
The discussions regarding TikTok unfolded this week in Madrid, where US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met to discuss broader trade agreements. The US and China have temporarily paused their trade war, with a deadline set for November 10 to reach an agreement.
This call came after Trump’s UK state visit, which coincided with a major investment deal for US tech companies in the UK, including Microsoft and Nvidia. Amid the ongoing trade tensions, US tech firms have faced restrictions, with reports indicating that China has instructed domestic companies to halt semiconductor purchases from Nvidia.
Additionally, the Chinese readout noted that Trump praised a recent Chinese military parade, which highlighted military capabilities. China emphasized its historical alliance with the US during World War II, framing the current relationship as critical to global stability.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/sep/19/deal-to-transfer-tiktok-to-us-control-unresolved-trump-xi-call