TechNet Statement on Canada Reconsidering Streaming Services Tax

Washington, D.C. - TechNet, the national, bipartisan network of tech CEOs and senior executives, today released the following statement from President and CEO Linda Moore on the Government of Canada's directive for the Canadian Radio-Television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) to review its decision to implement a discriminatory fee structure on U.S. video streaming companies under the Online Streaming Act and craft new policy directions:

"We appreciate the Canadian Government's consideration of the harmful impact that the discriminatory Online Streaming Act regime would have had on competitive fairness and access to streaming services in Canada. The Government's guidance to the CRTC to prioritize consumer choice and affordability is an encouraging signal that revised policy directions will better support competitive fairness, digital trade, and access to streaming services in both countries. We hope that the new framework adheres to these guidelines and avoids unfair fees on American businesses, recognizing the value that U.S. streaming services already provide in Canada - from the wide range of entertainment options they offer to their significant investments in Canadian content."