China Urges Fair Business Practices Following TikTok's US Service Resumption

During a press conference, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized the importance of a fair business climate, hoping the US government would heed calls for reason. This statement came shortly after TikTok announced it was resuming services in the United States, which had been affected by ongoing discussions regarding the platform's future and ownership structure.

The spokesperson highlighted TikTok's popularity in America, where it has significantly contributed to employment and consumer spending. Trump has publicly advocated for the platform, stating at a rally that a joint venture would preserve its operations for the app's 170 million users. Mao argued that business decisions, especially those implicating Chinese firms, should adhere to market principles and respective national laws.

TikTok's restoration of services followed Trump's commitment to sign an executive order that would permit the app to continue operations without immediate legal repercussions for its service providers. This move prompted a positive reaction among users who were eager to return to the app after a brief shutdown, highlighting TikTok's integral role in connecting various communities and businesses.

Experts noted TikTok's unique offerings and its significance within a broader economic framework in the US. Zhou Mi, a senior research fellow, remarked that the platform provides distinct services that enhance user engagement. He also pointed out that the Biden administration's previous policies against TikTok might not resonate with the public, as features from the app are widely supported among American users.

Despite the positive developments surrounding TikTok's operations, some users voiced concerns about its long-term stability due to political pressures that might favor a ban. Reports of dissatisfaction with the lack of clarity regarding the app's future also emerged, as some American users expressed a potential shift to other platforms.

Nonetheless, the economic impact of TikTok remains substantial, with a report indicating that small and medium-sized businesses using the platform contributed significantly to US GDP and job creation in 2023. This highlights the app's role in stimulating economic activity, further complicating any policy decisions surrounding its accessibility.

In response to questions about data security, Mao assured that the Chinese government prioritizes data privacy and complies with local laws, while also welcoming international companies that abide by Chinese regulations. Mao's comments underlined China's stance on the management of internet platforms and the reciprocity of business practices between countries.