Canada is engaging in preliminary discussions with Meta Platforms Inc to restore news access on Facebook and Instagram, a move sparked by escalating trade tensions with the United States. The negotiations come after Meta blocked Canadian journalism in 2023, following the passage of the Online News Act, which required mandatory payments to domestic media outlets. This regulatory standoff has evolved into a diplomatic 'trade irritant' for the Trump administration, which views the legislation as discriminatory toward American digital giants.

The upcoming review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) in July is a key driver for these talks. U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer has indicated that the review's success depends on resolving such digital trade disputes. Alisson Lévesque, a spokesperson for Canadian Identity Minister Marc Miller, confirmed active dialogue with Meta, emphasizing the government's willingness to negotiate. 'We want news back,' Lévesque stated, underscoring the strategic importance of these discussions.

While Google reached a $100 million annual settlement with Ottawa in 2023, Meta has maintained its refusal to pay for news content, claiming it holds little commercial value. This stance puts additional pressure on the negotiations, as both sides seek a resolution that balances regulatory compliance with commercial interests. The outcome could set a precedent for future digital trade agreements and the role of tech giants in supporting local media.