Washington – The Computer & Communications Industry Association applauds the introduction of the “Protecting American Streaming and Innovation Act” by Representative Lloyd Smucker (R-PA-16), which would direct USTR to launch a Section 301 investigation into Canada’s Online Streaming Act to address potential trade barriers.
The Online Streaming Act disproportionately prioritizes Canadian content to burden U.S.-based digital services, by exempting many domestic competitors and undermining the market access and non-discrimination commitments Canada made under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). CCIA estimates Canada’s forced contribution regime could cost U.S. music and video services up to nearly $7 billion by 2030.
The bill also notably applies to other countries with whom the U.S. has free trade agreements, and that adopt similarly discriminatory measures. This includes Australia, whose Australian Content Requirement amendment passed on November 27 last year.
The following can be attributed to CCIA’s Vice President, Federal Affairs, Brian McMillan:
“We commend Representative Smucker for his leadership in pushing back against discriminatory international digital trade music and video service laws. The Protecting American Streaming and Innovation Act is a necessary and timely step to ensure that U.S. core trade rules are enforced and that digital markets remain open, competitive, and innovation-friendly.”
