US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by phone on Friday, discussing the future of TikTok and ongoing trade tensions between the two countries. The conversation marks the second time the two leaders have spoken since Trump began his second term in January 2025. Both sides signaled that major decisions on TikTok and tariffs may be nearing conclusion.
Chinese state media confirmed the call had begun, while Trump previewed the agenda on Fox News, saying they were “very close” to agreements on both TikTok and trade. He added, “My relationship with China is very good,” suggesting optimism ahead of the potential deals. Trump also hinted that he may soon finalize a resolution on TikTok, which has faced regulatory pressure in the US due to national security concerns.
The TikTok deal, if confirmed, would reportedly involve US investors — including Oracle and prominent California-based firms like Silver Lake and Andreessen Horowitz — taking full control of the app’s American operations. Trump claimed the app helped him win over younger voters in the 2024 election, and said he preferred a solution that keeps TikTok operating in the US under American ownership.
Meanwhile, the leaders discussed ongoing trade disputes that had led to tariff hikes earlier this year. The US currently imposes a 30% tariff on Chinese imports, while China levies 10% on US goods. A temporary deal to reduce those tariffs expires in November. Both sides are now trying to avoid a renewed trade war that could again disrupt global supply chains.
The call came amid broader geopolitical shifts. Xi recently hosted leaders from Russia and India, and invited North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to a major military parade in Beijing. Trump commented on the gathering via Truth Social, writing sarcastically, “Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un as you conspire against the United States.” Trump also criticized India’s oil trade with Russia and urged Europe to sanction China over similar purchases, despite the US not taking such steps itself.