Hikvision Appeals Canadian Government Shutdown Order Amid National Security Concerns

A Chinese company known for producing surveillance camera systems, Hikvision, is contesting a directive issued by the Canadian federal government that mandates the closure of its operations in Canada due to concerns related to national security. In a press statement, Hikvision announced its intention to seek a judicial review of the order that was issued on June 27, and it is also petitioning the Federal Court to pause the enforcement of this closure until the court can evaluate the matter.

The Canadian government's decision to shut down Hikvision's operations followed a thorough national security review under the Investment Canada Act. In its statement, the company emphasized that it has adhered to all relevant laws since it began conducting business in Canada and asserted that its products and technology have not posed any risk to Canada's national security or that of other nations. Hikvision expressed its anticipation that the rights and interests of all investors and businesses operating within Canada will be safeguarded by the country's judicial framework.

For now, Hikvision intends to maintain its regular operations based on an "agreement" with the attorney general. The company claims to be the largest global manufacturer of surveillance equipment and has established a Canadian subsidiary since 2014. Following the order issued on June 27, Canadian Industry Minister Mélanie Joly referenced the inputs and evidence from the security and intelligence sectors that contributed to the government's decision. Additionally, Hikvision has encountered sanctions from countries including the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, primarily concerning allegations of supplying surveillance technology used for monitoring the Uyghur population in the Xinjiang region, which has faced significant human rights violations.

These controversies led major retailers like Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe's to discontinue the sale of Hikvision products, according to a TechCrunch report from 2021. Meanwhile, China has reacted strongly to the Canadian government's order, with a spokesperson from the Chinese embassy criticizing the move as an infringement on the rights of Chinese businesses and a harmful disruption to economic and trade relations between China and Canada. They called on Canada to reverse its decision immediately and cease the politicization of issues related to national security.