On September 15, a major piece of news broke: the United States and China have reached a framework agreement on the future of TikTok. Reuters reported that President Trump and President Xi are expected to hold a call this Friday (September 19) to further confirm details, although Xinhua has not mentioned such a call in its coverage. TikTok, an app with 170 million users in the U.S., clearly represents more than just “short videos” — it has become a strategic piece in U.S.–China relations.

1. A Turning Point for TikTok

The direction of the agreement is clear: TikTok will shift to a U.S.-led ownership structure to address national security concerns. At the same time, the Chinese side insists on preserving TikTok’s cultural and content characteristics, as the app represents not only a product but also a symbol of “soft power.” The most sensitive issue — whether its algorithm and recommendation logic must be fully handed over — remains unresolved. In other words, TikTok’s future may evolve into a hybrid model: a “U.S. security framework + Chinese cultural symbol.”

2. The Great Power Game Behind It

The TikTok negotiations are not an isolated matter. In 2024, the U.S. Congress passed legislation requiring TikTok to “de-sinicize” in order to continue operating in the country. After multiple extensions through executive orders, the talks have finally reached a critical juncture. The decision on whether a sale must proceed is imminent. Moreover, the discussions also tie into broader disputes over chip controls, tariffs, and technology exports. TikTok has become a breakthrough point in U.S.–China negotiations over technology and trade.

3. Key Dates Ahead

• September 17: This is the deadline for the agreement. If no clear outcome is reached, TikTok’s U.S. operations could fall into chaos.

• Congressional Review: The final plan still requires congressional approval, meaning political wrangling will continue.

4. Signals We Can Read

Amid ongoing competition, the talks are showing signs of stability. The TikTok sale, delayed for a year, is now close to completion. Against the backdrop of a complex international environment, this suggests that the future trajectory of U.S.–China relations may be shifting.

Conclusion

TikTok’s fate has long surpassed that of a simple short-video app. It now embodies the intersection of data security, cultural influence, and industrial competition.