China Explores TikTok US Sale to Elon Musk Amid Looming Ban, But TikTok Calls it “Pure Fiction”

In a dramatic development that could reshape the social media landscape, Chinese officials are reportedly exploring the possibility of selling TikTok’s US operations to billionaire Elon Musk, as the platform faces an imminent ban deadline of January 19, 2025. However, TikTok has swiftly dismissed these reports as “pure fiction,” creating uncertainty around the potential deal.

According to Bloomberg News, Chinese authorities are conducting preliminary discussions about contingency plans for TikTok’s future in the United States. One scenario under consideration involves Musk’s social media platform X (formerly Twitter) taking control of TikTok’s US operations, with an estimated value between $40 and $50 billion.

The discussions emerge as ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, faces pressure under the Americans Foreign Adversary Controlled Act, which requires either divestment of US operations or complete shutdown. The US Supreme Court recently heard oral arguments regarding TikTok’s legal challenge, with justices appearing skeptical of the platform’s First Amendment defense.

Beijing officials reportedly prefer TikTok to remain under ByteDance’s control, but are exploring alternatives due to mounting US pressure. The Chinese government holds a “golden share” in ByteDance, giving it significant influence over any potential sale. However, it remains unclear how Musk, despite being the world’s wealthiest person with a fortune exceeding $400 billion, would execute such a transaction.

The timing is particularly critical as the deadline approaches and coincides with President-elect Donald Trump’s upcoming inauguration. The US government maintains that TikTok poses national security risks, alleging it enables Beijing to collect user data and spread propaganda – claims that both China and ByteDance strongly deny.