April 6, 2025 President Donald Trump has signed an executive order extending the deadline for TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to divest its U.S. operations by 75 days. This move delays the enforcement of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act (PAFACA), which mandated the app’s sale or shutdown due to national security concerns.
The extension follows recent escalations in U.S.-China trade relations, including new tariffs imposed by both nations. A near-complete deal to transfer TikTok’s U.S. operations to a new entity with majority American ownership was stalled after China halted the approval process in response to these tariffs.
President Trump stated that his administration has been working diligently on a deal to save TikTok, emphasizing the need for additional time to secure necessary approvals. He expressed optimism about collaborating with TikTok and China to finalize the agreement.
Despite bipartisan concerns over data security and foreign influence, public opinion on banning TikTok has shifted, with fewer Americans supporting a ban compared to previous years. Content creators have been diversifying across platforms due to the uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future.
The additional 75-day extension aims to provide more time to navigate the complexities of the deal, including securing Chinese regulatory approval and addressing ongoing trade tensions. Lawmakers continue to urge swift action to enforce the law and resolve the matter.
