TikTok’s chief executive officer, Shou Zi Chew, has issued a statement regarding the company’s future in the U.S. market.
After the bill’s enactment by President Biden on Wednesday (April 24), which could mandate the sale of TikTok by its parent company ByteDance or face a possible ban, the CEO assured users with a video message saying, “rest assured, we aren’t going anywhere.”
Chew expressed his opinion on the matter: “Make no mistake, this is a ban, a ban on TikTok and a ban on you and your voice,” and cautioned users not to be misled by political rhetoric.
The newly signed bill grants ByteDance a nine-month timeframe to negotiate a sale of TikTok, with a potential extension of three months if a deal is underway.
In the wake of the legislation, the CEO expressed disappointment yet remained optimistic, commenting, “It’s actually ironic because the freedom of expression on TikTok reflects the same American values that make the United States a beacon of freedom. TikTok gives everyday Americans a powerful way to be seen and heard.”
Chew invited TikTok users to share their stories, illustrating the platform’s significant role in their lives and what the company stands for.
The deadline set for ByteDance to secure a buyer is January 24, 2025, before the app faces the possibility of a ban in the U.S.
The CEO concluded with confidence, stating, “We are confident, and we will keep fighting for your rights in the courts,” reinforcing their belief that they will overcome this legal hurdle based on factual and constitutional grounds.
FAQ Section
- What does the new bill signed by President Biden mean for TikTok?
The bill requires ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, to divest its ownership of the app within nine months, with a possible three-month extension. Failure to comply could lead to a ban of TikTok in the United States. - How has TikTok’s CEO responded to the legislation?
TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, released a video message affirming that TikTok is not planning to leave the U.S. market and will fight for the platform’s rights in court. - When is the deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok?
ByteDance has until January 24, 2025, to find a potential buyer for TikTok to avoid the app being banned in the United States. - How does TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew view the situation?
Chew finds the situation disappointing but sees it as an opportunity to highlight American values of freedom of expression. He believes that the facts and the Constitution will ensure a favorable outcome for TikTok.
Conclusion
In reaction to President Biden’s signing of the bill that could lead to a major shake-up for TikTok in the U.S., CEO Shou Zi Chew has articulated a clear message of resilience and determination to maintain TikTok’s presence in the U.S. market. Chew emphasizes the alignment of TikTok’s platform with American values and invites users to share their positive experiences with the app, further underscoring the company’s advocacy for freedom of expression. With the confident assertion that TikTok will prevail in legal challenges, the CEO stands firm in the face of uncertainty, ensuring users that TikTok is here to stay. This pivotal moment signifies a steadfast commitment to defending user rights and sustaining the influential role TikTok plays in American society.