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Canada orders China’s Hikvision to shut down on national security grounds
Canada has ordered China's Hikvision to cease operations, citing national security risks following a review under the Investment Canada Act. The government has barred the use of its products by state firms and will audit current systems. Hikvision, a Chinese surveillance firm, claims the decision is discriminatory. This action aligns with Canada's previous restrictions on other Chinese companies like TikTok.
Key points
- Canada's Industry Minister Mélanie Joly announced the order against Hikvision due to national security risks.
- The move follows a security review under the Investment Canada Act, which assesses foreign investments for security concerns.
- Hikvision has been instructed to cease operations in Canada within 120 days.
- The Canadian government previously banned TikTok's Canadian operations for similar security reasons.
- Hikvision claims compliance with local laws, labeling the order discriminatory.
- The order reflects Canada's approach to manage foreign investment, balancing economic interests with national security.
Why it matters
- This action is part of a broader trend of countries scrutinizing foreign technology firms amid concerns over surveillance and data privacy.
- By 2025, IT trends indicate increased government regulation and oversight over foreign technology to protect national security.
- The national security narrative is common in Western countries, influencing trade policies and technology partnerships with China.
Canada's order requiring Hikvision to shut down highlights growing concerns over national security and foreign corporate influence, following a trend of escalating scrutiny towards Chinese companies in North America.