What China is saying about TikTok’s deal with America
A binding agreement to transfer control of the American operations of popular video-sharing app TikTok was signed last week, December 18. According to the agreement, a group of American investors, including technology company Oracle, are going to take control of all operations of the platform in America. However, the Chinese government’s position on the TikTok deal is very different.
On the issue of TikTok’s transfer of its US operations, the Chinese government says companies like ByteDance should find a solution that complies with Chinese laws and regulations and protects the interests of all parties, said He Yongqian, a spokesman for the country’s Ministry of Commerce, on Thursday (December 25).
“It is hoped that the US side will work with China towards the same goal, sincerely fulfill its respective commitments, and ensure a fair, open, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for the continuous and stable operation of Chinese enterprises in the US,” he said.
It is worth noting that the short-form video sharing platform TikTok has been under a ban in the US since last year. This year, the Trump administration extended the ban several times, allowing TikTok’s 170 million users to continue operating in the country.
The app then avoided the risk of being banned thanks to a binding agreement signed between ByteDance and US investors last week, ending a long period of uncertainty. However, the deal will need approval from the Chinese government to go into effect, as ByteDance is a technology company registered in China.
