ByteDance hasn't initiated negotiations with potential TikTok buyers, despite the looming April 5th U.S. sale deadline, according to recent reports from multiple sources.


Several significant challenges complicate the potential sale:

• Multibillion-dollar price tag
• Complex data migration requirements
• Algorithm ownership and transfer
• Chinese government approval needed
• ByteDance's partial government ownership

President Trump has indicated he would "probably" extend the deadline if no deal is reached by April 5th. However, the lack of active negotiations raises concerns about TikTok's future in the U.S. market.

The Chinese government's reported "slow-rolling" approach to the sale process further complicates matters, as Beijing's approval is essential for any transaction to proceed.

Many music industry stakeholders remain indifferent to TikTok's fate, citing:

• Poor monetization for independent artists
• Questions about viral marketing effectiveness
• Concerns over sustainable streaming growth
• Limited long-term value proposition

Despite these obstacles, ByteDance and Chinese authorities will need to begin serious discussions soon if they intend to pursue a sale, given the complex negotiations and substantial financial considerations involved.

The current situation suggests TikTok's U.S. status will likely remain uncertain beyond the upcoming deadline, barring any unexpected developments or last-minute agreements.

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