Ottawa, Canada – The Canadian government has decided to allow the social media platform TikTok to continue operating in the country after completing a national security review into its activities.
Okay News reports that Canada’s Industry Minister, Melanie Joly, announced that the approval comes with strict legally binding conditions for TikTok’s Canadian operations, including new commitments aimed at protecting user data and strengthening oversight.
According to the government, the decision will also safeguard Canadian jobs by ensuring that TikTok maintains a physical presence in the country and continues investing in Canada’s cultural sector.
The development follows a previous move by Canada’s industry ministry in November 2024 ordering the dissolution of TikTok’s business in the country over national security concerns.
However, a federal court in January overturned that order and directed the government to reassess the case, prompting a fresh review led by Joly.
Under the new arrangement, TikTok has agreed to introduce stronger protections for Canadians’ personal data, including security gateways and privacy-enhancing technologies to control access to user information and prevent unauthorized use.
The government also said the platform will implement improved safeguards for minors, while an independent third-party monitor will be appointed to continuously audit and verify data access controls.
TikTok confirmed the agreement, saying it has reached an understanding with the Canadian government that allows it to maintain its operations in the country.
Authorities in Canada and several other countries have been closely scrutinizing TikTok due to concerns that the Chinese government could potentially access user data through the platform, which is owned by Chinese technology company ByteDance.
The issue has also drawn attention amid broader geopolitical considerations, as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has recently sought stronger ties with China to help offset economic pressures caused by US import tariffs.
