Initially, TikTok was expected to be banned in the United States at the start of the year. However, following his inauguration, President Donald Trump extended the ban’s deadline to April 5, 2025, confident of securing a deal before that date.

As time has passed, it has become increasingly evident that a resolution is unlikely, prompting Trump to consider delaying the ban yet again. In a recent interview on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Trump expressed that if a deal isn’t finalized by the current deadline of June 19, he would grant TikTok another extension.

Trump’s unexpected affection for TikTok, as he noted, “Perhaps I shouldn’t say this, but I have a little warm spot in my heart for TikTok,” is particularly ironic given his initial push for a ban during his first term. He has since acknowledged how TikTok contributed to his success in the subsequent election, which explains his more lenient stance now.

However, the possibility of striking a deal to sell TikTok remains uncertain. Despite the interest from various American companies eager to acquire TikTok due to its substantial user base and potential for data mining, the real complication lies in whether the Chinese government will permit such a transaction.

TikTok’s algorithm is regarded as a vital asset by China, and current US-China tensions complicate the company’s ability to engage in a sale to foreign, especially American, firms. Additionally, Trump’s imposition of high tariffs against China, intended to prompt negotiations, has instead led to China doubling down on its tariffs against US companies.

Thus, while a new deadline for the TikTok ban may be established, the reality of a successful sale remains in question.