Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry of Canada, François-Philippe Champagne, has announced that Canada is currently undertaking a comprehensive national security assessment concerning the proposed expansion of the widely-used video app, TikTok, owned by a Chinese entity.
The review, conducted under the framework of the Investment Canada Act, was discreetly initiated in September 2023.
Addressing reporters via teleconference from Italy, Minister Champagne emphasized the importance of completing the review process thoroughly. He pledged transparency, assuring Canadians that any decisions regarding this matter would be communicated promptly.
Minister Champagne referenced a prior announcement in March 2023 highlighting increased scrutiny on foreign investments within Canada's interactive digital media sector.
Under Government’s Observation
Investments found to be engaged in activities such as disseminating disinformation or manipulating information detrimental to Canada's national security may be subject to precautionary measures or potential ban.
It's worth noting that Canada's assessment of TikTok is independent of a similar legislative proposal in the United States aimed at compelling Chinese ownership to divest or face a ban within US borders. Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, commented on the ongoing deliberations in the US, emphasizing Canada's vigilance in observing the developments.
Moreover, the Canadian government took proactive measures earlier, prohibiting the use of TikTok on federal government mobile devices in February 2023.
The video-sharing platform, owned by the Chinese conglomerate, ByteDance, faces scrutiny amid concerns about potential data sharing with Beijing. Canada's action follows the European Commission's directive to remove the app to safeguard the institution.
The Canadian Office of the Privacy Commissioner, alongside provincial regulators, has thus launched an investigation into TikTok’s data practices following settled lawsuits and media reports. They aim to ensure compliance with Canadian privacy laws, particularly given the platform’s significant younger user base.
The assessment will further evaluate transparency and privacy protection measures. Canada's action aligns with global concerns about TikTok's ties to China and potential data harvesting. Similar concerns have led to advisories and bans in countries like the Netherlands and the United States, while the UK debates further actions.
