China has called for a lawful and balanced resolution to the ongoing restructuring of TikTok’s U.S. operations, as negotiations over the popular short video app move closer to completion.

Speaking at a regular press briefing on Thursday, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce said Beijing hopes all parties involved will pursue solutions that comply with Chinese laws and fairly protect the interests of companies on all sides. The remarks came in response to questions about the planned transfer of control of TikTok’s U.S. business.

According to Reuters, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, signed binding agreements last week to hand over control of its U.S. operations to a consortium of investors that includes U.S. technology firm Oracle. The move represents a major step toward preventing a potential ban of the app in the United States and resolving years of political and regulatory uncertainty.

Beijing calls for cooperation and fair treatment

Commerce ministry spokesperson He Yongqian said China hopes the United States will engage constructively as the deal progresses.

“It is hoped that the U.S. side will work with China in the same direction, earnestly fulfill its corresponding commitments, and provide a fair, open, transparent, and non-discriminatory business environment for the continuous and stable operation of Chinese enterprises in the United States,” He said.

The statement reflects Beijing’s long-standing position that foreign investment and technology partnerships should respect national regulations while avoiding what it sees as politically motivated restrictions.

Deal aims to avert U.S. ban

The agreement signed by ByteDance is designed to address U.S. national security concerns that have surrounded TikTok for several years. U.S. officials have repeatedly warned that the app’s Chinese ownership could pose risks related to data security and user privacy, allegations that TikTok has consistently denied.

Under the proposed arrangement, operational control of TikTok’s U.S. business would shift to a group of American investors, with Oracle playing a key role in data management and oversight.

Analysts say the deal, if fully implemented, could stabilize TikTok’s position in the U.S. market and set a precedent for how cross-border technology disputes are resolved amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Broader implications for tech relations

According to industry observers, the outcome of the TikTok negotiations may influence future regulatory approaches toward Chinese technology firms operating overseas. It could also shape how multinational companies structure ownership and governance to navigate increasingly complex global rules.

For now, both governments appear to be signaling cautious optimism, even as final approvals and implementation details remain pending.