Commerce Secretary Discusses TikTok’s Future Amid U.S.-China Tensions

On Monday, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick appeared on Fox News to discuss the ongoing situation involving TikTok and its implications for the U.S. and China.

TikTok faces the possibility of being shut down in the U.S. if China does not authorize the sale. The deadline for this decision has been extended to September 17. During his interview on “Special Report with Brett Beyer,” Lutnick mentioned that discussions are underway, with China contemplating a further extension of 90 days for negotiations.

“They’re in talks now, but really, the key decision-maker is President Trump,” Lutnick stated. “The individuals negotiating with China will certainly be reflecting on what President Trump wants to do. He has a strong relationship with President Xi. I think he aims to leave this in Trump’s hands. Could that be the end result?”

Beyer inquired whether TikTok is included in the current contract talks, to which Lutnick responded that while it remains a significant issue, it’s not part of the immediate discussions.

“TikTok is one of those matters that’s related but not integral to that specific deal. However, anytime the president speaks with his Chinese counterparts, it’s bound to come up,” he explained. “In my opinion, they’re separate, but they are linked.”

Reports indicate that TikTok is working on a new version of its app tailored for the U.S., set to be launched on September 5 in the U.S. app store. This development follows Trump’s remarks that an American company was close to finalizing a deal to acquire TikTok’s U.S. operations.

After the passing of laws intended to protect Americans from potentially hostile foreign applications, TikTok is now seeking American buyers. These protections were enacted by former President Biden in April 2024.

A bill introduced by the House Selection Committee on Strategic Competition seeks to separate TikTok from its Chinese ownership. A bipartisan committee member noted concerns over the Chinese Communist Party’s access to personal American data and influence over significant tech platforms.

During his initial term, Trump pushed for a TikTok ban but has since accumulated over 15 million followers on the platform, which he credits for enhancing engagement during his reelection efforts.