Germany's bold new tax on tech giants could reshape media funding by 2026
Germany's media sector could soon see a major change as the government pushes for a new tax on tech giants. Media Minister Wolfram Weimer has confirmed plans for a platform levy, aiming to pass it before the end of the year. The proposal targets companies like Google and Meta, requiring them to pay a percentage of their German revenue to support media diversity and local projects.
The levy would take 3% of annual revenue above €100 million, collected through automated tax filings via API. This system is expected to generate around €2.5 billion by 2026. Weimer described the measure as an 'earmarked contribution', ensuring funds go directly to media initiatives without government control over editorial content.
Publisher Julia Becker has backed the plan, calling it a 'regulatory correction' for the market imbalance caused by untaxed tech dominance. She argued that the money could fund local journalism, media literacy programmes, and independent reporting. Becker also stressed that the levy would not interfere with editorial freedom. Political support for the proposal is strong, with both the CDU and SPD endorsing it. However, the CSU remains opposed. Weimer remains confident, stating that the levy's passage is highly likely before year's end.
If approved, the platform levy would reshape funding for Germany's media landscape. Tech companies with high German revenues would contribute directly to journalism and public media projects. The government expects the system to be operational by 2026, with automated payments ensuring efficiency.
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