If you’ve been following the news, the TikTok ban is likely to take effect in the United States this Sunday, January 19. I won’t dive into the political side of things, as I’m not entirely sure how the law works, and there’s already plenty of discussion on that front. Instead, I want to focus on why this ban could directly affect you—even if you don’t live in the U.S.

As a TikTok Viewer/Consumer

While some American or U.S.-based content creators can occasionally stir controversy, they are undeniably entertaining, creative, and inspirational. A significant portion of my favorite creators are American. I’ve learned so much from them—skincare routines, organizing tips, life hacks, and more. Daily vlogs from Claudia Walsh, tech commentary by Parker Burton, and Heilly Raices’ phone case updates are just a few examples of the creators I enjoy.

For many Canadians like myself, it will be a sad day to say goodbye to some of our favorite American content creators. Their contributions enrich our daily lives, and their absence will leave a noticeable gap in the TikTok community.

As a TikTok Content Creator

For Americans, the reasons to worry about this ban are obvious, but as a non-American creator, there are critical reasons to be concerned as well:

1. Impact on Sponsorships and Earnings
   If you rely on TikTok for income through partnerships or sponsorships, the ban could create challenges. Companies base their social media investments on audience reach and purchasing behaviors. The removal of 150+ million U.S. users would severely limit TikTok’s spending power, making brands rethink their investments.

   Many sponsorships require creators to be U.S.-based or have a large American audience—both of which will be compromised. If you sell products as an English-speaking creator, the U.S. represents a major target market, and losing that audience will impact your revenue.

2. Audience Diversification Challenges
   As a Canadian content creator, my audience includes viewers from Italy, France, Malaysia, China, and other countries. However, about 15% of my audience comes from the U.S., even in a niche space like mine. For example, while the Winx Club has a massive following in Germany, it’s far less popular in the U.S. This niche audience still plays a vital role in growing my content.

   For creators in more universally popular niches, the U.S. audience represents an even larger percentage of their reach. Losing this market will force content to adapt to new audiences. As an English-speaking Canadian, my content might not align well with TikTok’s next largest audience—Brazil—due to language and cultural differences.

3. Potential for a Global Domino Effect
   The most concerning reason for non-Americans to worry is the possibility of their own countries following suit. In Canada, Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre recently expressed concerns about TikTok and hinted at closely monitoring the U.S.’s decision.

   While nothing is official yet, it gives insight into the mindset of Canada’s potential future Prime Minister. Many Canadians, myself included, are apprehensive about this possibility. If the U.S. sets this precedent, it could lead to similar decisions in other countries, further fracturing the global digital landscape.

1. Digital Freedoms Under Threat
   The TikTok ban raises questions about the balance between national security and personal freedoms. It sets a precedent for how governments might regulate or restrict digital platforms, potentially impacting the apps you can use and the content you can access. This could extend beyond TikTok to other apps in the future, affecting how freely you engage with global digital communities.

2. Economic Implications
   The ban affects millions of small businesses and creators who rely on TikTok for income. As a consumer, you might notice changes in the availability of products, the diversity of creators you follow, and even higher costs as businesses struggle to find alternative marketing platforms.

3. Data Privacy Awareness
   While the government cites national security concerns, this situation underscores the need for stronger domestic and international data privacy laws. It could push Americans to question how their data is stored, who has access to it, and how secure their information truly is—not just on TikTok, but across all platforms.

As Citizens of Other Countries (e.g., Canada)

1. A Domino Effect of App Restrictions
   If the U.S. succeeds in banning TikTok, other countries may follow suit, citing similar national security concerns. Canada, for example, already monitors foreign-owned apps closely, and this ban could accelerate regulatory decisions that limit the apps available to its citizens.

2. Global Tech Industry Impacts
   TikTok’s potential ban highlights tensions between nations over technology ownership and influence. As global citizens, you may see shifts in how apps are developed, the rise of localized platforms, or even a splintering of the internet, where content is segmented by geographic borders. This could reduce the free flow of information and connectivity across countries.

3. Implications for Free Speech and Expression
   TikTok has become a platform for sharing ideas, stories, and cultural content on a global scale. A ban could stifle the voices of millions and limit access to diverse perspectives, especially for those in countries with fewer digital freedoms. This issue transcends borders, affecting global citizens who value open dialogue.

4. Economic and Business Disruptions
   Many Canadian businesses and creators also rely on TikTok for exposure and revenue. Losing access to the platform could harm small enterprises and limit international collaborations. It could also signal the need for companies to rethink how they engage with global audiences.

Final Thoughts

The TikTok ban isn’t just a U.S. issue—it’s a global one. Whether you’re a consumer who enjoys American content or a creator who depends on a diverse audience, this decision will have far-reaching implications. It’s essential to stay informed and prepared for the potential changes this ban could bring, no matter where you live.

It’s not Sunday yet, so let’s not get too tense. Let’s laugh together at the rise of Rednote and how Americans are taking advantage of this rising Chinese social media app: