Canada has ordered TikTok to close its offices in Toronto and Vancouver, effectively ending the company’s operations in the country.
This decision comes after a national security review by Canada’s top intelligence agency, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS).
Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne announced the move, explaining that TikTok’s activities posed a serious risk to national security.
While he did not share specific details, the government’s decision highlights growing concerns over the app’s ties to China and its parent company, ByteDance.
“This decision is about protecting Canadians,” Champagne said in an interview with CBC News. “After a thorough review, we concluded that these activities are harmful to our national security.”
Despite the government’s order, TikTok assured Canadians that they would still be able to use the app. The company, however, voiced strong opposition to the closure, stating that it would challenge the decision in court.
A TikTok spokesperson warned that closing the Canadian offices would lead to the loss of hundreds of well-paying jobs.
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The Canadian government’s decision follows a ban on TikTok from government-issued devices in 2023, which was also prompted by privacy and security concerns.
TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, has faced similar scrutiny in the United States, where lawmakers have also expressed concerns about potential national security threats.
This ongoing dispute signals rising tensions between TikTok and governments around the world, especially in countries like Canada and the U.S. that worry about data security and foreign influence.
As the legal battle continues, TikTok says it remains committed to serving its Canadian users, allowing businesses and creators to continue using the platform.
