Web Desk 
Mar 31, 2025
President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that a deal to sell TikTok’s US operations will be reached ahead of the April 5 deadline, as the White House intensifies efforts to finalise the divestment of the Chinese-owned app.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump stated: “We have a lot of potential buyers. There’s tremendous interest in TikTok,” adding that he would like to see the platform continue operating.
The 2024 law requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban was passed on national security grounds, with US officials citing concerns over data privacy and potential Chinese government influence. The deadline, initially set for January, was later extended to April 5.
Private equity firm Blackstone is exploring a small minority investment in TikTok’s US business, according to sources. The firm is in discussions to join existing non-Chinese shareholders, including Susquehanna International Group and General Atlantic, to raise capital for a bid. This consortium has emerged as a frontrunner in the sale negotiations.
Unprecedented White House involvement has turned the TikTok negotiations into a high-stakes political and economic issue. Vice President JD Vance has expressed optimism that a deal will be outlined by the April 5 deadline. Trump also acknowledged China’s role in approving any sale, suggesting that a reduction in tariffs could be offered as an incentive.
The future of TikTok, which boasts 170 million American users, remains uncertain as talks continue. The Biden administration has made it clear that failure to reach an agreement would lead to a nationwide ban, intensifying pressure on ByteDance and potential buyers to strike a deal before time runs out.
