The Chinese government appears to be deliberately slowing down ByteDance's efforts to sell TikTok's U.S. operations, using it as leverage in broader trade negotiations with the United States.

Despite President Trump's 75-day deadline for ByteDance to find an American buyer, sources familiar with the matter told The Washington Post that Beijing has yet to grant the necessary permissions for a sale to proceed. The Chinese government appears more willing to let TikTok's U.S. operations cease rather than approve a quick sale, as they seek broader concessions on trade and technology policies.

This standoff occurs amid escalating trade tensions between the two nations. While Trump recently imposed a 10% tariff on Chinese goods, China retaliated with:

• Restrictions on mineral exports
• An antitrust investigation into Google
• A formal complaint to the World Trade Organization

Chinese officials are reportedly reluctant to hand Trump a victory without securing substantial concessions, including reduced tariffs and allowances on semiconductor chips. Sources indicate that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) would consider approving the sale only with significant trade policy concessions in return.

Meanwhile, multiple American companies have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok's U.S. operations, though no clear frontrunner has emerged. The situation remains complex as ByteDance navigates both U.S. pressure for divestment and Chinese government resistance, with one source noting that Chinese officials are "willing to pull the plug" if their demands aren't met.

Trump's promise to "save TikTok" during his campaign may face significant challenges, as the app's fate becomes increasingly entangled in broader U.S.-China trade negotiations.

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