TikTok Nears U.S. Deal Ahead of April 5 Ban Deadline, Trump Confirms

President Donald Trump has confirmed a deal involving TikTok and its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, is expected before the April 5 deadline to avoid a U.S. ban. The short-form video platform, used by 170 million Americans, faces divestment requirements under a 2024 national security law. Washington has long raised concerns over TikTok’s Chinese ownership, citing potential influence operations and data privacy risks.

“We have a lot of potential buyers. There’s tremendous interest in TikTok,” Trump said Sunday aboard Air Force One, adding, “I’d like to see TikTok remain alive.” Trump previously hinted he may extend the deadline if progress was being made, even suggesting possible tariff reductions to expedite China’s approval.

Private equity giant Blackstone is reportedly evaluating a minority investment in TikTok’s U.S. operations, according to sources cited by Reuters. The investment group could join ByteDance’s non-Chinese stakeholders, including Susquehanna International Group and General Atlantic, who are seen as front-runners to secure the deal.

Vice President JD Vance stated he expects the general terms of an agreement to be finalized by April 5. The White House has been unusually involved in negotiations, acting as a key mediator to ensure national security concerns are addressed while preserving TikTok’s U.S. presence.

The law passed in 2024 mandates ByteDance to divest TikTok or face a ban, reflecting bipartisan efforts to limit Chinese influence over tech platforms in the U.S. While TikTok has yet to comment, pressure is mounting as the deadline approaches. With nearly half of all Americans using the app, the outcome of these talks will significantly impact the U.S. digital landscape and broader U.S.-China tech relations.