Nepal Lifts TikTok Ban, Signaling Closer Ties with China Amid Geopolitical Tensions

In a move seen as an overture to China, Nepal has lifted its nine-month ban on the popular social media app TikTok. The decision, announced on August 22, comes after the Chinese-owned app’s parent company, ByteDance, reportedly agreed to adhere to conditions set by the Nepalese government. The ban, initially imposed due to concerns over hate speech and content disturbing “social harmony,” was revoked under the leadership of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, known for his pro-China stance.

The decision was preceded by a cryptic social media post by the Chinese ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, who wrote on platform X (formerly Twitter), “Today is a good day,” sparking speculation that negotiations to lift the ban had concluded. This was later confirmed by Nepalese government officials, who stated that TikTok had agreed to comply with new regulations, including promoting Nepali tourism and curbing hate speech.

The move marks a significant shift in Nepal’s geopolitical alignment, especially as TikTok remains banned in India, Nepal’s southern neighbor, and faces a potential ban in the United States due to privacy and security concerns. Nepal’s decision to lift the ban suggests a closer alignment with China, as tensions between China and India continue to impact the region.

Nepal’s re-engagement with TikTok is also part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties with China. On the same day as the TikTok decision, Nepal and China agreed to expand development projects, including upgrading a highway in Kathmandu under China’s Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, Nepal requested China convert a significant loan used to finance the Pokhara International Airport into a grant, a move aimed at easing the financial burden on Nepal.

Prime Minister Oli’s decision reflects his longstanding skepticism of India’s influence in Nepal. During his previous terms as Prime Minister, he resisted India’s economic blockade in 2015 and revised Nepal’s political map in 2017, straining relations with New Delhi. His return to power in July as the leader of a new ruling coalition has seen a renewed focus on reducing Indian influence and enhancing ties with China.

With around 2.2 million TikTok users in Nepal before the ban, the app’s reinstatement is expected to be popular domestically. However, it remains to be seen how this decision will impact Nepal’s delicate balancing act between its two powerful neighbors, China and India, amid ongoing regional tensions.

***