U.S. streaming companies are criticizing new CRTC rules that require large streaming platforms to spend 15 per cent of their Canadian revenue on Canadian content. The new rules are part of the Online Streaming Act and are much higher than the contribution level first proposed in 2024.
The Motion Picture Association, which represents companies like Netflix and Prime Video, said the rules unfairly target U.S. businesses and will make it more expensive to operate in Canada. The group called on the federal government to rethink the decision.
Canadian media organizations supported the move, saying streaming services should help fund Canadian programming just like traditional broadcasters have done for years. ACTRA Toronto said the rules could create more jobs and opportunities for Canadian performers and help Canadian stories reach audiences.
The CRTC also lowered contribution rates for traditional broadcasters and introduced new spending rules for both broadcasters and streamers. Large streaming companies earning more than $100 million in Canada will have to spend part of their money working with Canadian producers and broadcasters.
