What's happened
As of September 19, 2025, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone call discussing a TikTok ownership deal amid ongoing trade talks in Madrid. While Trump described progress on TikTok and other issues, details remain unclear and the transfer of TikTok to US control is not finalized. A face-to-face summit is expected at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in late October.
What's behind the headline?
TikTok Deal: A Diplomatic Balancing Act
The ongoing negotiations over TikTok's ownership reflect broader US-China tensions, where trade, technology, and national security intersect. Despite Trump's optimistic public statements, the lack of clarity on deal specifics suggests deep complexities remain unresolved.
Strategic Timing and Political Theatre
The timing of the talks and the planned summit at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting indicate both sides seek to showcase diplomatic progress. However, underlying geopolitical rivalries, including disputes over tariffs, semiconductors, and regional security, temper expectations for a comprehensive breakthrough.
Europe's Marginalization and Global Trade Dynamics
European concerns about being sidelined in US-China trade conflicts highlight shifting global trade alliances. Europe's push for strategic sovereignty and diversification away from reliance on US-China dynamics signals a reorientation of global economic partnerships.
Forecast and Impact
The TikTok deal will likely be part of a broader, incremental trade agreement rather than a standalone resolution. The US-China relationship will remain fraught, with technology and security issues continuing to dominate. For US consumers and TikTok users, the outcome affects access to the platform and data privacy debates. The anticipated Trump-Xi summit will be pivotal but unlikely to resolve all tensions.
What This Means for Readers
The evolving US-China trade relationship, exemplified by the TikTok negotiations, will influence global markets, technology access, and geopolitical stability. Awareness of these developments is crucial for understanding future economic and security policies that may affect everyday technology use and international relations.
What the papers say
The Guardian reported on September 19 that despite Trump's claim of a TikTok deal, details remain unclear after his call with Xi Jinping, with China emphasizing market-based negotiations and legal compliance. The South China Morning Post highlighted the anticipation of a Trump-Xi summit at the APEC meeting and noted ongoing disagreements on tariffs, Taiwan, and Ukraine, while confirming a framework agreement on TikTok from Madrid talks. Al Jazeera's John Power detailed the extension of TikTok's divestment deadline to December 16 and questioned what China might gain in return. The New York Post and TechCrunch covered Trump's optimistic social media posts about the trade talks and TikTok deal, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stressing national security priorities. The Independent provided background on TikTok's rise and the US legislative push for divestment, noting the app's popularity and the political debates surrounding it. South China Morning Post articles from earlier in September outlined the trade talks' context, including rare earths, tariffs, and the potential state visit by Trump to China. These sources collectively illustrate a complex negotiation process with political signaling, economic stakes, and unresolved tensions shaping the narrative.
How we got here
The US has threatened to ban TikTok unless its Chinese owner ByteDance divests its US operations, citing national security concerns. Trump has repeatedly extended the deadline for divestment, with the latest set for December 16. Trade talks between the US and China, including discussions on tariffs, technology, and TikTok, have been ongoing since early 2025, with a temporary tariff truce expiring November 10.
Go deeper
- What are the main sticking points in the TikTok ownership negotiations?
- How might the Trump-Xi summit impact US-China trade relations?
- Why is Europe concerned about being sidelined in US-China trade talks?
Common question
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What Are the US and China Negotiating in Madrid?
The upcoming high-level talks between the US and China in Madrid are drawing global attention. These negotiations focus on critical issues like trade, security, TikTok, and illicit finance, with potential implications for international stability. Curious about what’s at stake and how these talks could shape the future? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this diplomatic event and what it might mean for the world.
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What’s at Stake in the US-China Trade Talks in Madrid?
US and Chinese officials are currently meeting in Madrid for high-stakes trade negotiations. These talks focus on tariffs, technology restrictions, and security concerns, with the potential to reshape global markets and international relations. Curious about what’s being discussed, why these talks matter, and what they could mean for the future? Keep reading for answers to the most common questions about this critical diplomatic event.
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Will TikTok Stay in the US or Get Banned?
With ongoing US-China trade talks and national security concerns, many are wondering whether TikTok will remain accessible in the US or face a ban. Recent negotiations aim to find a middle ground, but what does this mean for users, investors, and the platform's future? Below, we explore the latest updates and answer your key questions about TikTok's fate in America.
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Why Are US and China at Odds Over Tech and Trade?
The ongoing tensions between the US and China over technology and trade are shaping global markets and affecting major companies like Nvidia and TikTok. From trade talks to national security concerns, these issues are complex and evolving. Curious about what’s driving these conflicts and what might happen next? Here are the key questions and answers to help you understand this high-stakes geopolitical landscape.
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Will the US and China Reach a TikTok Deal Soon?
The ongoing negotiations between the US and China over TikTok's ownership have captured global attention. With talks intensifying and deadlines approaching, many wonder if a deal is imminent and what it could mean for users and international relations. Below, we explore the latest developments and answer common questions about this high-stakes negotiation.
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Could the APEC summit be a turning point for US-China relations?
The upcoming APEC summit in South Korea is drawing attention as a potential milestone in US-China diplomacy. With recent talks between President Trump and Xi Jinping focusing on TikTok and trade tensions, many wonder if this summit could reshape the future of their relationship. Below, we explore key questions about the summit's significance, the issues on the table, and what it could mean for global stability.
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What’s Next for Global Tech and Trade Tensions?
The landscape of international technology and trade is rapidly evolving, with major developments like US-China negotiations over TikTok, Nvidia’s strategic moves amid China’s chip bans, and shifts in pharmaceutical investments. These stories raise important questions about how countries are balancing security, economic growth, and technological leadership. Below, we explore the key issues shaping the future of global trade and tech relations, answering the most pressing questions you might have.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Xi Jinping is a Chinese politician serving as the general secretary of the Communist Party of China, president of the People's Republic of China, and chairman of the Central Military Commission.
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Scott K. H. Bessent is an American hedge fund manager. He is the founder of Key Square Group, a global macro investment firm, and worked as a financier for George Soros.
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