China has responded to United States President Donald Trump’s proposal for changing TikTok’s US ownership.

The proposed solution involves forming a joint venture where the US would hold a 50% ownership stake.

Mao Ning, a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry, said at a press briefing on Jan. 20 that “corporate operations and acquisitions should be decided independently by companies based on market principles.”

Mao also pointed out that Chinese companies operating abroad, including TikTok, are required to follow Chinese laws.

She emphasized TikTok’s popularity in the US and called for a fair and non-discriminatory business environment for all foreign companies in the US.

Recent TikTok developments