TikTok US Sale Deadline Extended to Mid-June Amid Trade Tensions; Amazon, Oracle Among Potential Buyers

The deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok's US operations has been extended to mid-June, following US legislation requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok's US business due to national security concerns. The new deadline is June 19, 2025. Potential buyers include Amazon, Oracle, Frank McCourt, Employer.com founder Jesse Tinsley, and Zoop, led by OnlyFans founder Tim Stokely. China has responded with retaliatory tariffs and export restrictions. ByteDance confirmed ongoing negotiations with the US government but noted key issues remain unresolved and regulatory approval is needed. The US government is concerned about TikTok's data privacy and potential ties to the Chinese government. Similar concerns have been raised in other countries, leading to bans on government devices. Several US companies, including Amazon, are said to have made bids to acquire the video-sharing platform. The law was upheld by the US Supreme Court despite TikTok's legal challenge.