Tech Lobbying, Canada, and Tax Policy in a Collapsing Global Liberal Order

Background: This research examines the significance of the collapse of the U.S.-led global order for Big Tech lobbying, with a focus on Canada’s Digital Services Tax.

Analysis: The Canadian government resisted conventional Big Tech lobbying but abandoned its tax in response to a unilateral threat to impose an unlawful tariff from U.S. President Trump.

Conclusions and implications: Trump’s peremptory threat is emblematic of how business interests will increasingly be addressed as the global order collapses, raising concerns about the power and accountability of Big Tech.