US Business Groups Urge Trade Review of Canada Streaming Rule

US business groups are calling on the Trump administration to investigate a new Canadian-content funding rule affecting online streaming giants as an unfair trade barrier.

The Computer & Communications Industry Association said Tuesday the rule, described by many industry groups as a tax, warrants an investigation under Section 301 of the US’s Trade Act of 1974. Section 301 investigations examine overseas trade practices that the US views as discriminatory and often serve as the basis for retaliatory measures.

Streaming companies making C$25 million ($18 million) or more a year in Canadian revenue will be required to spend 15% of ...