Argentina: Introduced Act amending Bill 26522 on Audiovisual Communication on Digital Platforms including local content requirement

On 29 April 2024, the Act amending Bill 26522 on Audiovisual Communication on Digital Platforms, including local content requirement, was introduced in the Chamber of Deputies of Argentina. The Act would introduce several amendments to the Audiovisual Communication Services Bill 26522. It defines new categories such as subscription broadcasting, on-demand audiovisual services, live and linear content distribution, and digital content distribution services. These definitions aim to encompass modern digital broadcasting and streaming services. Furthermore, the Act would exclude informative digital media with incidental audiovisual content, video games, and educational on-demand content. In addition, the Act would update the definition of independent production to clarify the independence of producers from licenses. It would mandate the National Communications Entity to maintain a public registry of audiovisual signal generators, producers, and digital service providers operating in Argentina. Furthermore, the Act would obligate providers to ensure at least 20% of the content in their catalogues is of national origin, with at least half of this content being independent productions. Emphasis should be placed on recent productions, specifically those from the past five years. Providers who do not meet these national content requirements will face fines ranging from 1% to 7% of their annual gross revenue. Repeated violations within the designated period will result in additional penalties and may include the suspension of access to national funding programs.