ByteDance Stands Firm: No Plans to Sell TikTok Despite US Ban Threat

ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, has emphatically stated that it has no intentions of selling the popular video-sharing platform following new U.S. legislation that could potentially force a sale or lead to a ban in the United States. This declaration comes in response to reports suggesting that ByteDance was considering divesting TikTok, particularly without its pivotal recommendation algorithm.

The recent bill passed by the U.S. Congress has escalated tensions, citing national security concerns. U.S. officials argue that TikTok could be misused for data collection or as a conduit for Chinese propaganda, claims that TikTok and ByteDance have consistently denied. They maintain that U.S. user data has never been, nor will ever be, shared with Beijing.

In light of these developments, TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, announced plans to challenge the new law in court, signaling a potentially lengthy legal battle ahead. This firm stance by ByteDance reflects its commitment to retaining ownership of TikTok despite the mounting pressure from U.S. lawmakers.