China’s foreign ministry has labeled a potential TikTok ban as “an act of bullying” that could backfire on the United States, a statement made just hours before a House of Representatives vote on legislation aimed at compelling ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese owner, to sell the popular app to an American company. Without such a sale, TikTok could face being prohibited in the U.S., where it boasts over 170 million users.
Wang Wenbin, a spokesperson for the Chinese foreign ministry, accused the U.S. of resorting to bullying tactics in its pursuit of TikTok, despite lacking evidence of national security threats posed by the app. Wang warned that such actions could disrupt market operations, erode investor confidence, and undermine the global economic order, ultimately rebounding negatively on the U.S.
While U.S. officials and lawmakers have expressed concerns about potential data security risks associated with TikTok and its potential use for spreading propaganda, misinformation, or influencing Americans, cybersecurity experts note that these concerns remain largely speculative. However, the House vote on the proposed legislation, which requires a two-thirds majority for passage, is anticipated to proceed with broad bipartisan support, although its fate in the Senate is uncertain.
Contrary to characterizations of the bill as a TikTok ban, Wisconsin Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher emphasized that it places the onus on TikTok to sever ties with the Chinese Communist Party, suggesting that a change in ownership structure could allow TikTok to continue operating.
China has previously stated its firm opposition to any forced sale of TikTok, asserting that such transactions involve technology export and must adhere to Chinese laws and regulations.
On Chinese social media platforms like Weibo, discussions surrounding TikTok have gained traction, with many users expressing support for the app’s efforts to challenge the proposed legislation. Some users have criticized the U.S., labeling it hypocritical, while state-run media outlets like the Global Times have defended TikTok, accusing the U.S. of attempting to unlawfully acquire the platform.
