The Canadian government has ordered Chinese-owned TikTok to shut down its business operations in Canada, citing national security concerns.
The decision, announced on Wednesday, mandates the closure of TikTok’s offices in Toronto and Vancouver.
François-Philippe Champagne, Canada’s industry minister, clarified that while Canadians can continue using the app, they should do so with caution.
He explained that the ban specifically targets ByteDance Ltd.’s establishment of TikTok Technology Canada Inc., not Canadians’ ability to access or create content on the platform. “The decision to use a social media platform remains a personal choice,” Champagne said.
He said, “The government is not blocking Canadians’ access to the TikTok application or their ability to create content. The decision to use a social media application or platform is a personal choice,” the statement reads in part.
“The government is taking action to address the specific national security risks related to ByteDance Ltd’s operations in Canada through the establishment of TikTok Technology Canada Inc.”
The dissolution order falls under the Investment Canada Act, which enables reviews of foreign investments that could threaten national security. According to Champagne, the move is based on extensive evidence gathered during a review and on advice from Canada’s security and intelligence agencies.
In response, TikTok announced it would contest the order in court, stating that closing its Canadian offices and eliminating hundreds of jobs is detrimental to the country.
“Shutting down TikTok’s Canadian offices and destroying hundreds of well-paying local jobs is not in anyone’s best interest, and today’s shutdown order will do just that.”
Additionally, Canada previously banned TikTok from government devices, labeling it an “unacceptable risk to privacy and security.”
TikTok is facing increasing scrutiny across North America and Europe over concerns related to data privacy and security.
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