Hikvision Ordered to Cease Operations in Canada: Company Responds

CNBC AI News – In a move with potential ramifications for Sino-Canadian trade, the Canadian government has ordered Hikvision Canada, a subsidiary of the Chinese surveillance technology giant, to cease operations within 120 days, citing national security concerns. The announcement, made on June 27th, has drawn a sharp rebuke from both Hikvision and the Chinese government, intensifying existing geopolitical tensions.

Hikvision, a global leader in video surveillance solutions, responded swiftly to the Canadian directive.

Hikvision’s statement contends that the Canadian government’s decision is “groundless” and based on a misinterpretation of China’s national security laws. The company emphasizes its commitment to ethical business practices and adherence to local laws and regulations in all its global operations. Hikvision views the Canadian action as discriminatory and lacking in due process.

Echoing this criticism, the Chinese embassy in Canada issued a statement expressing strong opposition to the Canadian government’s decision. The embassy condemned the move as harmful to the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese businesses and disruptive to normal economic cooperation between the two countries. The Chinese government emphasized its support for Chinese companies operating abroad under fair market principles and called on Canada to reverse its decision. It urged Canada to cease the politicization of trade and to provide a fair and non-discriminatory environment for Chinese businesses. The Chinese government stated it would take all necessary measures to protect the rights of its companies.

The dispute highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Chinese technology companies operating in Western markets, where concerns regarding national security and data privacy often intersect with geopolitical rivalry. This also underlines the growing trend of countries scrutinizing the involvement of Chinese companies in critical infrastructure and sensitive sectors, contributing to a complex landscape for global trade and investment.