U.S. business groups warn CRTC’s CanCon rules could worsen trade conflict [Video]

Groups representing U.S. businesses and big tech companies are warning the CRTC that its moves to modernize Canadian content rules could worsen trade relations with the United States.

They say the CRTC’s measures to implement the Online Streaming Act, which updated broadcasting laws to capture online platforms, could invite retaliation from the U.S.

Those warnings — found in documents filed as part of a CRTC proceeding on a new definition of Canadian content — come as U.S. President Donald Trump threatens to impose 25 per cent tariffs on Canada, possibly as soon as Feb. 1.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is taking aim at an earlier decision by the CRTC under the Online Streaming Act to require big foreign streaming companies to contribute money toward the creation of Canadian content.

It warns that now is “not the time” for Canada to “invite retaliation” on trade from the Trump administration.

It …