What Counts as 'Canadian Content' on TV and Streaming?

Official title: Share your thoughts on Canadian content for TV and online streaming services

Closed Regulations & Permits Economy & Jobs Technology & Digital

The CRTC asked Canadians how to define 'Canadian content' for Netflix, Disney+, and traditional TV. Should streaming giants have to invest in Canadian shows? How should AI-generated content be handled? The goal was to update decades-old rules for the streaming age.

Why This Matters

Watch Netflix or Disney+? This decision affects what Canadian shows get made. Streaming services may now have to fund Canadian productions—just like traditional broadcasters always have. That could mean more homegrown content, or higher subscription costs.

What Could Change

The CRTC has issued its decision. Streaming services like Netflix and Disney+ now face Canadian content investment requirements similar to traditional broadcasters. The definition of 'Canadian content' has been updated to recognize more diverse creators. AI's role in content creation will be monitored going forward.

Key Issues

How should 'Canadian content' be defined in the streaming era?
Should streaming services like Netflix be required to invest in Canadian productions?
How should AI-generated content be treated under Canadian content rules?
What data should streaming services report for transparency?

How to Participate

Review the Notice of Consultation to understand what was being proposed.
Read the What We Heard Report from stakeholder workshops.
View all interventions submitted during the consultation.

What Happened

The CRTC has issued its first decision on Canadian content for TV and online streaming services. The consultation received interventions submitted online, by mail, and by fax. A public hearing was held with transcripts available. Public opinion research was conducted on perceptions of Canadian programming and news.