The federal government’s decision to allow TikTok to operate in Canada marks a reversal of an earlier decision that it be dissolved.
In November 2024, the industry ministry cited perceived national security risks as the reason the platform be shut down in Canada.
However, a January federal court decision overturned the government order, setting the stage for the reversal of that order.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly said allowing TikTok to operate in this country will protect Canadian jobs. She also cited TikTok’s plan to invest in Canada’s cultural sector.
She added TikTok has committed to putting in place advance protections for minors and independently verify data access controls.
Trent University communications assistant professor Christopher Cwynar has been watching this development closely. His research has focused on how Canadian public media institutions like CBC as an example are adapting to the rise of digital platforms.
Cwynar said the extra scrutiny being shown TikTok stems from two areas of concern.
Cwynar noted the progression of social media to the various platforms now available has brought with it more concerns, resulting in a gradual reversal of the popularity that swept TikTok and other platforms to prominence.
Cwynar said social media users are more aware than ever of the pitfalls of openly sharing information and are acting accordingly.
TikTok has over 16 million monthly active users in Canada as of early 2026, with that number projected to grow to over 17 million by 2028.
(Written by: Paul Rellinger)
