The Canadian government has instructed TikTok to shut down its offices in Canada, citing national security risks, although Canadian users can still access and use the app. Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced this decision, clarifying that while the government is not banning TikTok for Canadian users, it is acting on findings from a national security review of TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, based in China.

Champagne did not specify the risks identified in the review but emphasized that the decision is based on evidence collected in collaboration with Canada’s security and intelligence agencies. He stated that the move aligns with the Investment Canada Act, which allows the government to restrict foreign investments posing security threats.

TikTok has vowed to contest the order in court, arguing that closing its offices in Canada will result in job losses and that the platform continues to provide value for creators and businesses.

“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,” TikTok stated, adding it will challenge the directive in court. Despite the order to shut down offices, Canadians retain the freedom to use TikTok, as the platform remains accessible for content creation and business purposes.

Champagne underscored that Canada remains open to foreign investments but will take decisive action to protect national security when necessary.

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