The government supported the introduction of the levy last summer. When asked what has changed since then, Kulbergs replied that this conclusion was reached during direct communication with partners. According to the Ministry of Culture, after the regulation comes into force, registered foreign streaming platforms could annually contribute about 600,000 euros to the budget of the National Film Center for the creation of Latvian films and series. Kulbergs believes that this amount is not worth worsening relations with allies from the USA. "I would gladly support the film industry from the budget to avoid damaging these relations," the Prime Minister stated. He cited Lithuania as an example, which is currently negotiating the placement of additional U.S. armed forces in the country. According to Kulbergs, any thoughtless step could be used against national security interests. As reported, at the end of September, the Saeima's Human Rights and Public Affairs Committee supported in the final reading amendments requiring audiovisual service providers to invest at least 3.5% of their revenues earned in Latvia annually into the creation of local audiovisual content. The goal is to support the production of Latvian films and series and expand the availability of local content on streaming platforms. On Monday, Kulbergs stated that the government should consider abandoning the levy on streaming platforms and instead focus on supporting the film industry. Confusion regarding this statement was expressed by the Latvian Association of Film Producers, the Latvian Union of Cinematographers, and the Latvian Guild of Film Directors.
