Apple TV+ expands French and European content production commitment

Apple TV+ is making big moves in France and Europe by solidifying its commitment to local and European content production. In a groundbreaking agreement with the French government, the streaming service has pledged to invest 20% of its annual net sales from France into local and European audiovisual productions over the next four years. What’s great is that 70% of this investment will go towards independent productions, allowing French and European creators to maintain ownership of their work.

This agreement falls in line with France’s 2021 SMAD decree, which sets investment quotas for all streaming services operating in the country. Additionally, the European Union directive requires streaming platforms to ensure that 30% of their content is produced within the EU. As a result, Apple TV+ is joining the likes of Netflix and Amazon in supporting the local creative economy.

The funds from this deal will support a range of projects, including documentaries and animations, showcasing Apple’s dedication to fostering creativity and diversity in storytelling. Industry groups have praised this move, emphasizing the platform’s integration into the French cultural landscape and its contribution to preserving local cultural identity in the digital age.

Since launching in France in 2019, Apple TV+ has been steadily increasing its local offerings. Popular shows like La Maison, which explores the fashion world, and the thriller series Liaison have highlighted the platform’s commitment to premium European programming. The upcoming mini-series À l’ombre des forêts is set to expand this portfolio further.

In addition to its streaming platform, Apple TV+ has also partnered with the well-known French cable provider Canal+ in 2023. This collaboration has made Apple’s entire catalogue accessible to Canal+ subscribers, increasing the visibility of European productions like Silo.

Apple’s focus on European storytelling not only recognizes the global appeal of local narratives but also promotes cultural exchanges between regions. French content, with its unique cultural specificity and cinematic tradition, has the potential to resonate with audiences beyond Europe, including in Francophone countries and parts of Africa.

Overall, this agreement reflects a broader industry trend where governments are working with streaming giants to support local creative industries. By collaborating with French and European regulators, Apple TV+ is strengthening its position as a key player in the region’s cultural ecosystem while enriching its global content library with diverse European storytelling.