Ottawa redirects Online Streaming Act, injects $600M into audiovisual sector
Ottawa has significantly redirected its policy regarding the Online Streaming Act, including a federal investment of $600 million for Canada's audio and audiovisual sectors. This move aims to stabilize content costs and protect consumers from potential price increases, while also directing the CRTC to review its recent decision on Canadian content spending requirements for streamers. The government intends to develop new policy directions to adjust the implementation of the Online Streaming Act, ensuring affordability and choice for consumers.
Key Takeaways
- A federal investment of $600 million will support Canada's audio and audiovisual sectors.
- Canadian Heritage Minister Marc Miller directed the CRTC to review its May 21 decision on Canadian content spending for streamers.
- The CRTC's previous decision increased the Canadian Programming Expenditures (CPE) requirement for online streamers earning over $25 million in Canadian revenue to 15%.
- New policy directions for the Online Streaming Act will prioritize affordability, consumer choice, and flexibility for streamers and broadcasters.
Why It Matters
The Canadian government's intervention signals a direct response to concerns that new CRTC regulations could lead to higher streaming costs for consumers. By allocating $600 million and pushing for a review, Ottawa is attempting to balance cultural content promotion with market affordability. This move suggests a potential shift in how Canadian content expenditures will be financed, moving some burden from streamers to direct government investment. Industry players should monitor the CRTC's revised directives and the specific allocation of the $600 million, as well as any subsequent adjustments to streamer contributions.
Read full article at broadcastdialogue.com