U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke for the first time in three months. They discussed TikTok’s future, trade issues, fentanyl, and Russia’s war in Ukraine. Trump said they made progress on a TikTok deal and plan to meet face-to-face in South Korea in six weeks. Both leaders agreed to continue talks during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum starting October 31.
Trump announced he would visit China early next year, with Xi planning a U.S. visit later. Trump said China approved the TikTok deal, which is “well on its way.” However, Beijing did not confirm a formal agreement yet. TikTok owner ByteDance also expressed hope to keep serving U.S. users while respecting Chinese laws. The U.S. Congress had threatened to ban TikTok by January 2025 if no deal was reached.
The deal aims to transfer TikTok’s U.S. assets to American owners while still using ByteDance’s algorithm. Trump promised tight U.S. control, including possible government seats on TikTok’s board. Some lawmakers worry about Chinese spying or influence through the app. Trump hinted the U.S. might charge a multibillion-dollar fee for helping broker the deal, but terms remain unclear.
Beyond TikTok, the leaders touched on trade and security concerns. Trump has raised tariffs sharply since taking office, especially targeting China. Despite tensions, China remains the U.S.’s third-largest trading partner. Both countries face slowing economies and complex geopolitical issues like Taiwan and the South China Sea. Neither side mentioned Taiwan during this call.
Finally, Trump called for China to address fentanyl exports linked to U.S. overdose deaths. Beijing denies wrongdoing and accuses Washington of distorting the issue. The upcoming meeting in South Korea will be critical to resolving these trade, security, and diplomatic challenges between the two superpowers.