The Canadian regulator has announced a new tax for Google $GOOGL to cover the costs of complying with a law that requires large internet platforms to pay for news content. This decision comes amid heightened tensions between Canada and the United States over trade and digital service taxes for American tech companies.

New Tax for Google

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) stated that a significant portion of its operations will be funded by fees charged to the companies it regulates. The tax for Google will take effect on April 1 and will vary each year without an upper limit.

Key Aspects of the New Law:

1. Purpose of the Law: The new tax is intended to compensate for the costs of complying with the Online News Act.

2. Google's Discontent: Google opposes this tax, considering it irrational to place the entire financial burden on one company.

Global Trend and Canada's Response

Canada has followed the global trend of holding internet giants accountable for paying for news content. The regulator's announcement is part of a broader effort to support the media industry, which faces displacement by tech companies in the online advertising market.

- The introduction of this tax was made possible through public consultations that included active participation from both the media industry and the public.

- Besides Google and Meta $META, the new rules will only apply to companies that meet the criteria of a large organization.

Key Points from Public Consultations:

1. Supporting the Media Industry: The new law supports traditional media, helping them compete with tech giants.

2. Regulating Activities: The form and size of the tax will be adjusted based on specific yearly conditions.

Conclusion

The new tax on Google underscores Canada's determination to support its media industry and regulate the activities of large tech companies. This law highlights the global trend towards a fair distribution of resources between traditional and new media.