Several Chinese apps that were previously banned by the Indian government are making a quiet comeback to the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. While Shein’s return to India made headlines, other apps like Xender and TanTan have also reappeared, albeit under different names or with new developers. However, one major name remains missing from the list TikTok.
The Indian government initially banned 59 Chinese apps in June 2020 amid escalating border tensions with China. This move was justified on national security grounds, with the government citing concerns over data privacy and potential misuse of user information by Chinese companies. Some of the most popular apps affected by this decision included TikTok, WeChat, ShareIt, UC Browser, Shein, and Bigo Live.
The crackdown continued in 2022, targeting more apps, including widely popular mobile games like PUBG Mobile and Garena Free Fire. In total, over 250 apps were removed from Indian app stores, marking one of the most extensive digital bans imposed by the government.
Over the past few months, a number of these banned apps have made a return, raising questions about policy shifts and regulatory oversight. Apps like Xender, which was once a go-to file-sharing platform, have resurfaced with modifications, often under new branding or through different developers. Similarly, the dating app TanTan, which was removed in 2020, is now reportedly available again.
The re-entry of these apps coincides with a broader shift in India-China relations, where economic and trade ties are slowly being restored. The return of Shein, the popular fashion e-commerce platform, through a partnership with Reliance Retail was a significant milestone in this trend.
Despite the resurgence of several banned apps, TikTok one of the most downloaded apps in India before the ban remains absent from Indian app stores. Unlike other apps that have rebranded or found alternative developers, TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, has struggled to regain the Indian government’s approval.
Reports suggest that TikTok has been in discussions with Indian authorities and potential business partners, but no official green light has been given for its return. National security concerns and data privacy regulations continue to be major roadblocks.
The re-emergence of Chinese apps suggests a gradual thaw in India’s digital crackdown on Chinese technology. However, with India’s data protection laws evolving and security concerns still prevalent, the return of major apps like TikTok remains uncertain. Whether more previously banned apps will follow this trend depends on diplomatic negotiations, regulatory approvals, and the evolving cybersecurity landscape in India.
