Trump issues ban on Chinese owned consumer apps in the U.S

On Thursday, U.S President Donald Trump signed twin executive orders to ban ‘transactions’ with the Chinese owners of U.S based TikTok and WeChat. The order will take effect in 45 days by September 15.

According to media reports, this is an ‘unprecedented’ use of presidential authority. It remains unclear whether Trump actually has the legal authority to ban consumer apps from the U.S. Additionally, the order wording remains vague and the commerce secretary has been called upon to define the ambit of banned ‘transactions’ within the 45 day timespan.

Also read: Ban on Chinese apps - Impact and the road ahead for brands & influencers