Summarised by Centrist
Media Minister Paul Goldsmith is sticking to his plan in the face of possible backlash from tech giants like Google and Meta over a new law that could force them to fund New Zealand journalism outlets.
Goldsmith announced in July that the government would proceed with the Fair Digital News Bargaining Bill, which was originally drafted by the previous government.
The bill aims to force tech companies, like Google and Meta, to sign licensing agreements with journalism media outlets that could be set by a regulator, potentially worth tens of millions of dollars.
Meta has taken a hard stance in Canada by blocking news sharing on Facebook and Instagram, and has threatened similar action in Australia.
While Google’s response has been less severe, there’s word that Google may also alter its business practices in New Zealand in response to the bill.
Goldsmith has downplayed these reactions saying the feedback from internet companies has been “nothing surprising”. He mentioned that the government is still working on fine-tuning the bill, but assured there are no major issues delaying its progress. “It’s just a balancing act,” he said.
He said he is in discussions with various groups to ensure the bill is carefully considered before its second reading in Parliament.
