Canada is currently undergoing a national security assessment of the proposed expansion of the popular video app TikTok, which is owned by a Chinese company. François-Philippe Champagne, the industry minister, disclosed this during a teleconference from Italy after his meeting with G7 counterparts, mentioning that the review process began quietly in September of the previous year under the Investment Canada Act.
“We have initiated a national security review [of TikTok],” Champagne informed reporters, adding, “Once completed, we will inform Canadians about any actions we decide to take regarding this matter.” However, he didn’t specify a timeline for the completion of the review.
Champagne referred to a March 2023 announcement stating that foreign investments in Canada’s interactive digital media sector would face rigorous scrutiny. Investments found to be involved in disseminating disinformation or manipulating information detrimental to Canada’s national security could be subject to corrective measures or potential prohibition.
Importantly, the Canadian review is distinct from a proposed US bill aiming to compel TikTok’s Chinese owners to divest their holdings or face a ban in the United States. This bill stems partly from concerns regarding Chinese national security laws requiring organizations to assist with intelligence gathering.
TikTok operates as a subsidiary of the Chinese technology firm ByteDance Ltd. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau remarked on Thursday about the ongoing US debate after the House of Representatives passed the bill, indicating that Canada is monitoring the situation closely. Additionally, Ottawa had already prohibited TikTok from being used on federal government mobile devices as of February 2023.
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The decision to ban TikTok from federal government mobile devices in February 2023 underscores Canada’s growing concerns about the potential risks associated with Chinese-owned technology platforms. This move aligns with broader efforts to safeguard national security and protect against potential threats posed by foreign entities, particularly in the digital realm.
As the review of TikTok’s expansion progresses, policymakers in Canada will likely weigh various factors, including the platform’s data privacy practices, content moderation policies, and potential ties to the Chinese government. These considerations are essential in determining whether TikTok’s operations align with Canada’s national security interests and regulatory standards.
Given the evolving nature of technology and the increasingly interconnected global landscape, countries like Canada must remain vigilant in assessing and managing the risks posed by foreign-owned digital platforms. The outcome of the national security review will provide valuable insights into how Canada navigates the complex intersection of technology, national security, and international relations in the digital age.
