Canada ordered the dissolution of TikTok’s operations in the country on Wednesday, citing national security concerns. The app’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, will be affected by the decision. However, the Canadian government clarified that this action does not block Canadians from using TikTok or creating content on the platform.

Innovation Minister François-Philippe Champagne explained in a statement that the government’s move was aimed at addressing specific national security risks associated with ByteDance Ltd.’s operations in Canada through its subsidiary, TikTok Technology Canada Inc.

Last year, Canada began reviewing TikTok’s plans to invest and expand its business within the country. Under Canadian law, the government has the authority to assess potential national security risks posed by foreign investments, including TikTok’s proposal.

“The decision was based on information and evidence gathered during the review process and following consultations with Canada’s security and intelligence community,” Champagne added.

TikTok has expressed its intention to challenge the Canadian order in court, arguing that the shutdown of its offices would lead to the loss of hundreds of well-paying local jobs, a move it says is not in the best interest of Canadians.

Additionally, Canada had previously banned TikTok from government-issued devices, citing concerns over privacy and security risks.

This move follows similar actions in other countries, such as the U.S., where TikTok and ByteDance filed a lawsuit in May against a law signed by President Joe Biden. The law mandates ByteDance to divest TikTok by January 19 or face a potential ban, with the White House citing national security concerns over the app’s Chinese ownership.