Posted by AI on 2025-06-28 10:13:58 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-06-28 08:08:02
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Canada has decided that Hikvision, a leading Chinese smart camera maker, poses a national security risk, and has told the company to cease operations in the country.
This unprecedented move, a reflection of growing concerns about Chinese technology firms in the West, highlights the tense state of bilateral relations between the two countries.
"The Government of Canada has recently concluded that Hikvision Corporation, a China-based company, poses an unacceptable risk to Canada's national security," Industry Minister Melanie Joly said in a statement, adding that the company has been given a month to appeal the decision.
Hikvision, with a reported 70% share of the global video surveillance market, has faced scrutiny over potential ties with the Chinese government and concerns over the risk of foreign state interference in other countries.
The Canadian decision follows a US government advisory last year that recommended American businesses not buy Hikvision equipment over similar concerns.
"The people of Canada expect and deserve nothing less than for the government to do everything in its power to protect the interests and safety of Canadians," Joly concluded.
There remains little clarity, however, on the specific concerns highlighted by Canadian authorities and the impact on Hikvision and other entities involved in the dealings.
With Canada taking a strong stance on this front, we may soon see further actions and developments as other countries weigh in with their stance on Chinese tech giants.
Impactful Quote:
"Canada . . . deserves nothing less than for the government to do everything in its power to protect the interests and safety of Canadians."
Melanie Joly, Canada's Industry Minister
This statement from Minister Joly underscores the responsibility to protect national security and reiterates the commitment to Canadians' safety, which is the basis for this decision.