US and China Reach Framework to Resolve TikTok Algorithm Dispute: Sources
WASHINGTON – The United States and China have reportedly reached a framework agreement intended to resolve the long-standing dispute over TikTok’s algorithm, potentially averting a ban of the popular social media app, sources familiar with the deal revealed Sunday. The agreement, brokered with the involvement of former president Donald Trump, centers on a compromise allowing a US investor group to replicate TikTok’s core “secret sauce” algorithm, effectively divorcing it from Chinese control.
The deal comes as the latest extension of a deadline for TikTok to address US national security concerns was set to expire Wednesday.Trump had reportedly threatened to allow the app to go dark to gain leverage in broader trade negotiations with China, but a breakthrough was reached late Sunday.
Initially, Chinese President Xi Jinping resisted relinquishing control over the app.However, he ultimately agreed to the compromise as a means to end the trade stalemate with the US and potentially pave the way for a visit to Beijing by Trump. The two leaders are scheduled to speak this Friday to finalize the details of the framework.
The proposed structure aims to satisfy bipartisan legislation upheld by the US Supreme Court, which stipulates that Chinese entities must have no control over TikTok for it to continue operating in the US.By recreating the algorithm, the new US-based company would meet this requirement.
Investors briefed on the matter say Trump may need to extend the typical 90-day compliance period due to the complexity of replicating the algorithm.
Despite the apparent progress, some Republican lawmakers remain wary, expressing concerns that TikTok’s algorithm could still be used for surveillance and the dissemination of anti-US propaganda. TikTok’s user base is heavily concentrated among young people,with the largest demographic group aged 18-24 and a significant number under 18.
The White House and a spokeswoman for the US investor group involved in the deal had no immediate comment.
