Canada’s federal court has overturned a government order seeking to shut down TikTok’s operations in the country, allowing the popular app to continue operating for now.
The ruling comes amid growing speculation that Canada was preparing to block TikTok entirely. While the court reversed the closure order, the federal government has launched a renewed investigation into national security concerns linked to the platform.
In November 2024, Canada’s industry ministry ordered the dissolution of TikTok’s Canadian business, citing potential national security risks. At the time, officials stressed that the move would not block user access or prevent content creation on the app.
TikTok, which has more than 14 million monthly users in Canada, challenged the decision in court.
Federal Court Judge Russel Zinn rejected the shutdown order in a brief ruling and referred the matter back to Industry Minister Melanie Joly for further review. The court did not provide detailed reasons for its decision.
TikTok will be able to continue operating its subsidiary in Canada for now, after a previous order for it to wind down its operations in the country was shelved by a judge https://t.co/nbi2tpQXAP
— Bloomberg (@business) January 21, 2026Following the ruling, the industry ministry confirmed that Joly will now conduct a fresh national security review of TikTok’s operations.
TikTok welcomed the court’s decision and said it looks forward to working with the minister during the renewed assessment process.
The case unfolds as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged efforts to improve relations with China. Officials see stronger ties as a way to reduce economic pressure from U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods.
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Concerns around TikTok have intensified in Canada and other Western countries due to its Chinese ownership. Officials fear the platform could be used to access user data or advance the interests of a foreign state.
In September 2025, TikTok agreed to strengthen child-safety protections in Canada after an investigation found gaps in its safeguards for personal information.
The renewed review will determine whether TikTok can continue operating in Canada under stricter conditions or face further regulatory action.
