Québec is pushing forward legislation that could directly impact how streaming platforms like Netflix operate in the province.
Bill 109, introduced by Culture and Communications Minister Mathieu Lacombe, would require digital platforms and device makers to prioritize French-language content by default in Québec.
The proposed law, titled the Act respecting the discoverability of French-language cultural content in the digital environment, aims to highlight Québec’s cultural sovereignty by making French-language content easier to find and access.
If passed, the law would apply to platforms that offer video or audio streaming services — including giants like Netflix, Disney+, Spotify, and YouTube — as well as manufacturers of smart TVs and connected devices.
“The introduction of this legislation is about promoting Québec’s language and culture in the digital space,” said Lacombe.
Under the bill, digital platforms would need to register with the Minister of Culture and Communications, and interfaces on smart TVs and devices sold in Québec would be required to default to French. The government would also gain the power to set quotas for the amount of original French-language content that must be made discoverable.
A newly established agency, the Bureau de la découvrabilité des contenus culturels, would monitor compliance and make recommendations. Companies that fail to meet the requirements could face monetary penalties or even be subject to government orders.
The bill does not apply to social media or platforms primarily offering Indigenous content. While it’s still in the early stages, the legislation signals Québec’s intent to take a firmer stance on cultural preservation in the streaming era — and platforms like Netflix will likely need to adjust.
The law would come into effect on a date set by the Québec government once it passes the legislative process.
Québec’s new bill could require Netflix and other streamers to prioritize French-language content and register with the province, adding another layer to do business in the province. What could be the fallout? Streamers could ditch Quebec to avoid the expense of conforming to provincial legislation.
As of late, the biggest U.S. streamers including Netflix, Disney+ and more, are already pushing back to the CRTC against equal CanCon rules.
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What could be the fallout? Streamers could ditch Quebec to avoid the expense of conforming to provincial legislation.
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Doesn't this last line speak volumes? Sadly the residents of Quebec they aren't allowed to decide for themselves what to watch and streamers have to be "whitewashed" by Culture and Communications Minister Mathieu Lacombe or more directly – government.
You know what we say……..Quebec can go f**k itself.
Quebec can be criticized on many aspects, but not here. Quebec has a flourishing industry the same way France has had same laws for decades.
This kind of initiative should be respected, especially when they work well elsewhere.
If anything, maybe Quebec should teach the rest of Canada on how to do better at not letting the American movie industry taking over at the expense of Canadian content.