Google Threatens to Block New Zealand News Content Over Proposed Law
Tech giant Google has announced plans to cease linking to New Zealand news content if a proposed law requiring tech companies to pay for news articles is passed. The decision comes in response to the New Zealand government’s move to advance a bill that would mandate revenue-sharing deals between tech platforms and media outlets.
The current government reconsidered the law following significant job losses in the media industry. Google New Zealand Country Director Caroline Rainsford stated that if the legislation is enacted, the company would stop linking to news content and discontinue commercial agreements with local publishers.
Google’s licensing program currently contributes millions of dollars annually to nearly 50 local publications. However, the News Publishers’ Association has criticized Google’s stance, describing it as corporate pressure on the government.
This situation mirrors similar developments in other countries. Australia was the first to enforce comparable laws, leading to news blackouts by tech giants before deals were eventually struck. Both Google and Meta have resisted renewing agreements in Australia and Canada, with Google pledging financial support in Canada.
Local reactions to Google’s announcement have been mixed. Colin Peacock, a media analyst, noted that Google’s current funding to local outlets is insufficient for significant media support. Meanwhile, Minister for Media and Communications Paul Goldsmith is engaged in ongoing discussions with Google and aims to pass the law by the end of the year.
As the debate continues, the outcome of this proposed legislation could have far-reaching implications for the relationship between tech platforms and news publishers in New Zealand and potentially influence similar discussions globally.
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