Canada Bans Hikvision Operations Nationwide Citing National Security Threat

In a decisive move under the Investment Canada Act, the Government of Canada has ordered Hikvision Canada Inc. to shut down operations nationwide, citing concerns that the Chinese surveillance technology firm’s continued presence poses a national security threat. The order, announced by Industry Minister Mélanie Joly via a public statement and tweet, follows a comprehensive national security review.

“The government has determined that Hikvision Canada Inc.’s continued operations in Canada would be injurious to Canada’s national security.”

“This determination is the result of a multi-step review that assessed information and evidence provided by Canada’s security and intelligence community.”

The scope of the ban extends beyond private sector operations. The government is also prohibiting the purchase or use of Hikvision products across federal departments, agencies, and crown corporations. A full audit of existing equipment is underway to ensure legacy Hikvision products are phased out.

“The Government of Canada is further conducting a review of existing properties to ensure that legacy Hikvision products are not used going forward.”

Minister Joly emphasized that while Canada welcomes foreign investment, it “will never compromise on Canada’s national security.”

Hikvision swiftly responded to the order with a sharply critical statement, issued on June 27th, 2025. The company described the decision as deeply concerning, claiming it lacks factual basis, transparency, and procedural fairness.

“We strongly disagree with this decision and view it with deep concern, as we believe it lacks a factual basis, procedural fairness, and transparency.”

The company also alleged that the action was not based on cybersecurity merit but instead influenced by geopolitical tensions and discrimination against Chinese companies.

“The decision appears to be driven by the parent company’s country of origin, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions and an unjustified bias against Chinese companies.”

Hikvision Canada emphasized its nearly 11-year presence in the Canadian market, citing contributions to the economy and adherence to local laws.

“Since it was established in 2014, Hikvision Canada has built a meaningful presence in Canada… providing Canadians and Canadian businesses with some of the best in market products designed to ensure the safety and well-being of local communities.”

The company claims it fully cooperated throughout the government review, offering documentation, responses, and proactive engagement—only to receive the shutdown order without any public presentation of evidence.

“Despite these efforts, the government imposed its decision without presenting evidence or addressing the facts we provided.”

This move places Canada among a growing list of Western governments—alongside the U.S., U.K., and Australia—that have increasingly taken action against Chinese tech firms involved in surveillance infrastructure, citing concerns over espionage, data sovereignty, and human rights.

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