CRTC Applies 5 Percent Tax on Streaming Providers; Experts Say It Will Be Downloaded to Consumers

The social media page of the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) on a cellphone in a file photo. The Canadian Press/Sean Kilpatrick

Online streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ will soon be required to contribute 5 percent of all Canadian revenues to support Canada’s broadcasting system—a measure which could mean increased costs for subscribers, experts say.

The tax, which will take effect in September, will be used to boost funding for local and cultural broadcasting, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has announced. The tax will be implemented for all streaming services making more than $25 million per year and is expected to bring in an estimated $200 million per year in new funding.