By Why Other Countries May Follow Suit If TikTok Sells to a US Buyer
At the early hour of Sunday 19th January,2025, TikTok shuts down its operation in the US, leaving many citizens particularly the influencers in dark hour. The social media app which was recently ruled to shut down its operation or sell to a US citizen didn’t make any comment following the supreme Court ruling after 170days window.
As the due date reached with no move to sell the US version of the app to anybody, the potential sale of TikTok’s US operations to an American owner could mark a significant turning point for the app, but the implications extend far beyond US borders— other countries may follow suit in order to leverage the opportunity for tax. If the sale happens, it may set a precedent for other nations concerned about foreign-owned technology platforms and their influence on national security and data privacy.
Countries like India, which was the first to ban TikTok in 2020 citing national security concerns, could see the US approach as validation of their own decisions and a need to reconsider over income generation. Other nations might feel emboldened to demand similar ownership changes to mitigate risks associated with data sharing, especially when dealing with apps tied to foreign adversaries.
The sale of TikTok’s US operations would align with the growing trend of “digital sovereignty,” particularly in US where Donald Trump is expected to prioritize controlling data and technological infrastructure within their borders.
The European Union, for instance, has been advocating for stricter data regulations. If TikTok succumbs to US pressure, European nations could demand similar arrangements to secure their citizens’ data.
The move would establish a powerful precedent— that foreign apps must adapt to local regulations or risk being banned. This could inspire countries to insist that major platforms like TikTok, or even other tech giants place their operations under local ownership or strict oversight.
A TikTok sale would also underscore concerns about content moderation and political influence. This in particular means that Nation like Nigeria should take the opportunity to harness income from Nigeria influencers on the social media app since its vast users are in Nigeria. Nations might argue that only local ownership can ensure unbiased moderation and adherence to domestic laws.
The US is a global tech leader, and its actions often influence other countries’ policies. If TikTok is sold, nations in regions like Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East—where TikTok has massive user bases—may replicate these demands to avoid being left behind in the race for data control and security.
