Canada expels Chinese surveillance giant Hikvision, citing national security threats after formal review under the Investment Canada Act.
Government Forces Hikvision Exit Over Security Concerns
The Canadian government has ordered Chinese surveillance technology firm Hikvision to cease operations in Canada, citing national security risks. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly announced the decision late Friday, June 27, following a formal review under the Investment Canada Act. The review drew on intelligence and security assessments from Canadian national agencies.
Hikvision’s Operations in Canada Under Scrutiny
Hikvision, among the world’s largest producers of surveillance cameras, has operated in Canada via a subsidiary since 2014. The shutdown directive marks a rare use of Canada’s authority to expel a foreign company on security grounds. The company’s products have previously faced bans or restrictions in the U.S., U.K., and Australia over concerns linked to surveillance practices in China.
International Context Fuels Action
The decision aligns Canada with other Western allies that have acted against Hikvision amid allegations that its technology has been used to monitor Uyghur Muslims in China’s Xinjiang region—claims that Beijing denies. Canadian officials did not specify the precise nature of the security threat but emphasized that the move protects national interests.
Company Denounces Ottawa’s Ruling
In a statement Saturday, Hikvision said it “strongly disagrees” with the shutdown order, calling the decision unfounded and lacking transparency. The company insisted it had cooperated fully with Canadian authorities and argued that its technology was not fairly evaluated. Hikvision suggested that the decision reflects geopolitical tensions rather than actual security concerns.
Government Plans Further Measures
Alongside the expulsion, Minister Joly confirmed that no federal departments, agencies, or Crown corporations will be permitted to buy or use Hikvision equipment. A review of existing government infrastructure will identify and phase out any legacy devices. Joly also urged private sector and individual Canadians to consider the risks when purchasing surveillance technology.
What Comes Next
The Chinese Embassy in Ottawa has yet to respond to Canada’s move. Meanwhile, security analysts suggest that the action signals Canada’s growing willingness to align with allies on technology security and to confront potential foreign threats in sensitive sectors. The timeline for Hikvision’s wind-down of operations in Canada has not been publicly disclosed.
