Final Deal on TikTok Sale Reached Between US and China

US and China Finalize TikTok Ownership Deal

In a significant development for US politics, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on Sunday that a deal has been finalized between the United States and China concerning the sale of TikTok's American operations. During an appearance on CBS's Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan, Bessent stated, "We reached a final deal on TikTok." This agreement marks a crucial step in the ongoing negotiations surrounding the popular social media platform.

Details of the Agreement

While specific terms of the deal were not disclosed, Bessent hinted that it was established during discussions in Madrid. He mentioned that all aspects had been resolved, and the finalization will be formally completed when US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping meet on Thursday in Korea. Bessent remarked, "We reached [a deal] in Madrid, and I believe that as of today, all the details are ironed out, and that will be for the two leaders to consummate that transaction."

Framework for Broader Trade Negotiations

The agreement on TikTok is seen as part of a larger framework for potential trade discussions between the two nations. Bessent's comments come on the heels of Trump signing an executive order on September 25, which aimed to facilitate a deal for new ownership that would predominantly feature American investors.

Involvement of Key Players

Bessent clarified that he was not involved in the commercial aspects of the transaction, stating, "My remit was to get the Chinese to agree to approve the transaction, and I believe we successfully accomplished that over the past two days." Rumors have emerged suggesting that Barron Trump, the 19-year-old son of the President, could potentially serve on the board of the new ownership structure. Additionally, Trump has indicated that prominent figures such as Rupert Murdoch and Larry Ellison, both known for their influence in conservative media, may be part of the new US investors.

Historical Context

This deal comes in the wake of Trump's previous threats to ban TikTok in 2020, a response to China's handling of the Covid-19 pandemic. Following these tensions, Congress passed a ban on the app, which was signed into law by President Joe Biden in April 2024. Initially set to take effect on January 20, 2025, the ban was extended multiple times by Trump as his administration worked to establish a deal for ownership transfer.

Valuation and Ownership Structure

Valued at approximately $14 billion, the deal stipulates that US and international investors will own around 65% of TikTok, while ByteDance and Chinese investors are expected to hold less than a 20% stake. Trump's executive order grants significant oversight of the app's algorithm to these new investors, who will occupy six out of seven seats on the board of directors.

Upcoming Meeting Between Trump and Xi

As this deal unfolds, Trump is currently in Malaysia attending a summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) as part of a five-day tour of Asia. A key highlight of this trip is the anticipated face-to-face meeting between Trump and Xi on Thursday, where they are expected to discuss critical issues such as agricultural purchases from US farmers, trade balance, and the ongoing fentanyl crisis in America that has contributed to Trump's imposition of 20% tariffs on Chinese imports.

Conclusion

The finalized agreement regarding TikTok's ownership represents a pivotal moment in US-China relations, reflecting the complexities of international trade and technology governance. As the two leaders prepare to meet, the outcomes of their discussions could have far-reaching implications for both the app and broader economic ties between the nations. The evolving landscape of US news surrounding TikTok continues to capture the attention of both political and business leaders, as they navigate the intricate dynamics of global digital commerce.