Chinese officials are reportedly considering selling TikTok’s U.S. operations to billionaire Elon Musk if the company cannot avoid a potential ban in the United States.
The Bloomberg News report highlights growing tensions over the app’s future in the U.S. amid national security concerns.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Chinese authorities reportedly prefer TikTok to remain under the ownership of its current parent company, ByteDance.
The company is actively contesting the U.S. government’s efforts to restrict or ban TikTok, including an appeal filed with the U.S. Supreme Court. The legal challenge aims to push back against a January 19 deadline, which could either force a sale of TikTok’s U.S. operations or see the app banned outright.
Under one proposed scenario, Musk‘s social media platform, X, could assume control of TikTok’s U.S. business, operating it in partnership with ByteDance. However, sources indicate that the discussions are still at a preliminary stage, with no consensus reached within Chinese government circles.
Key regulatory bodies in China, such as the Cyberspace Administration of China and the Ministry of Commerce, were unavailable for comment on the matter. These agencies are likely to play a critical role in any decision concerning the fate of TikTok’s U.S. operations.
The debate over TikTok’s future in the U.S. has been fueled by national security concerns, with American lawmakers and officials expressing fears that the app could expose sensitive user data to the Chinese government.
Last week, the Supreme Court signaled support for legislative efforts targeting TikTok’s operations, highlighting the need to address perceived risks.
As the January deadline approaches, the proposed involvement of Musk adds a new dimension to an already contentious issue.
Known for his ventures in technology and innovation, Musk’s potential acquisition of TikTok’s U.S. operations would place the popular short-video app under the umbrella of X, a platform he has been working to transform since its rebranding from Twitter.
For now, TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain, with Chinese officials grappling with how to navigate the escalating pressure while protecting their domestic tech giant.
All eyes continue to watch the unfolding drama surrounding one of the world’s most popular apps as deliberations continue.