In response to the approval of a bill by US lawmakers that could potentially result in a nationwide ban of TikTok, China has issued a stern warning to Washington, cautioning that such actions could have adverse consequences.
Prior to the vote in the US House of Representatives, the Chinese Foreign Ministry condemned the proposed ban, labeling it as an act of bullying. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin emphasized that despite the absence of evidence suggesting TikTok poses a threat to US national security, the US has persisted in suppressing the platform.
Wang Wenbin argued that a ban on TikTok disrupts normal business activities, undermines international investor confidence, and jeopardizes the established international economic and trade order. He further warned that such measures would ultimately rebound on the United States itself.
Concerns regarding TikTok’s ownership by the Chinese company ByteDance have been longstanding among US lawmakers from both the Republican and Democratic parties, who have expressed apprehensions over national security risks. There are fears that the Chinese government could compel ByteDance to surrender the data of American users of the app.
Despite ByteDance refuting these claims, the bill, known as the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, garnered bipartisan support in the House, passing with a vote of 352-65. The bill’s fate now rests with the Senate, where its prospects remain uncertain.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has indicated a willingness to consult with relevant committee leaders to gauge support for the bill. President Joe Biden has expressed his intention to sign the bill if it reaches his desk.
If enacted into law, the bill would mandate TikTok’s removal from US app stores unless ByteDance sells the platform within approximately six months. TikTok’s chief, Shou Chew, emphasized the company’s commitment to safeguarding user data and ensuring the platform remains free from external manipulation. However, he warned of the potential repercussions of the bill, highlighting its potential impact on American jobs and businesses.
