Spotify is withdrawing its support for two music festivals in response to a controversial new tax targeting music-streaming platforms operating in France.
The managing director of Spotify in the France and Benelux regions, Antoine Monin, expressed opposition to a recently introduced tax that is set to impose a levy, expected to range between 1.5% and 1.75%, on all music-streaming services.
The proceeds from this tax are intended for the Centre National de la Musique, established in 2020 to bolster the French music sector.
While major music-streaming platforms, including Apple, Google’s YouTube, and local player Deezer, have united against the new law, Spotify has been particularly vocal.
Following the announcement last week, Spotify characterized the move as a “real blow to innovation” and stated that it was assessing its next steps.
Now, Spotify has revealed its initial response to the situation. Monin disclosed that the company will withdraw support for the Francofolies de la Rochelle and the Printemps de Bourges festivals from 2024.
Spotify had been providing financial support and other on-the-ground resources to these events. Monin further hinted at additional actions in 2024 without providing specific details.
