Canadian content

Big tech companies that offer online streaming services could soon be required to contribute to Canadian content as a controversial Liberal bill gets one step closer to becoming law.

The Online Streaming Act, introduced Wednesday, would force web firms to offer a set amount of Canadian content and invest heavily in Canada's cultural industries, including film, television and music.

Online platforms like Netflix and Spotify may end up spending more than $800 million on Canadian content over the next three years under a series of policy changes the federal government has proposed.

The federal heritage minister says if new tools are needed to get digital giants to pay for Canadian content, they will be built.

Canadian Heritage Minister Mélanie Joly has delivered a stern warning to internet giants such as Google, Apple, Facebook and Amazon, that the federal government is planning a crackdown.

Rogers said in a statement on Monday it is evolving its Canadian content strategy and will redirect future funding to initiatives that "better align" with its portfolio and brands.