Disney Increases Investment in International Film and TV Markets to Expand Streaming Subscriber Base

Disney CEO Bob Iger recently shared plans to ramp up investments in original local and regional content outside of the United States to further expand the studio’s streaming platforms globally. According to Iger, this move towards producing more content overseas is a significant step in Disney’s growth strategy, especially in markets where increased investment in local content is necessary.

Since the launch of Disney+ in 2019, the studio has seen a steady growth in its streaming business internationally. Iger noted that Disney has already begun developing content more aggressively in very targeted overseas markets to enhance its content strategy and reach a wider audience.

To support Disney+ and other streaming services, Disney has been increasing its pipeline of local and regional content to strengthen its global direct-to-consumer business. In a February filing, Disney outlined plans to allocate $23 billion towards produced and licensed content, including sports rights, in the coming fiscal year.

This push to expand content production overseas comes amidst discussions surrounding President Donald Trump’s proposal to impose tariffs on movies filmed outside of the United States. The surprise proposal by Trump’s Hollywood ambassador, Jon Voight, sheds light on the importance of federal tax incentives and changes in the tax code to further promote domestic film production.