TikTok Deal Leaves National Security Risk, Garnaut’s Tobin Says

TikTok Deal & Algorithm Control - The core issue revolves around whether Bytedance, TikTok's parent company, will retain control over TikTok's algorithm [3] - Beijing has consistently refused to relinquish control of the algorithm to U S investors [4] - The potential deal may allow Bytedance to maintain control over the algorithm, raising concerns about influence over American discourse [4] - Skepticism exists regarding the possibility of rebuilding or retraining the algorithm independently of Bytedance [5] - Beijing imposed export controls on the algorithm back in 2020, which remain in effect [7] National Security Concerns - Concerns persist that allowing an adversary-controlled company to maintain control of the algorithm poses a risk to U S national security [6] - The situation is likened to allowing a foreign power to control major U S media outlets [8] - The proposed TikTok deal seemingly contradicts the Trump administration's national security strategy, which identifies foreign interference in U S media as a problem [9] US-China Relations & Trade - The situation is influenced by ongoing trade issues between the U S and China, particularly concerning chips [1] - Domestic supply chain resiliency in China is a significant focus [1] - The TikTok situation is described as a saga, with the U S side continually lowering expectations in negotiations with Beijing [4][7]