The Economic Impact of Music Piracy – A $12.5 Billion Problem
Music piracy isn’t just an issue for artists—it’s a massive hit to the global economy.
According to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), music piracy costs the U.S. economy a staggering $12.5 billion annually. That’s not just numbers on paper; it represents real jobs, lost income, and a weakened creative industry.
💼 71,060 Jobs Lost Every Year
Music isn’t created in a vacuum. Behind every hit song, there are songwriters, producers, sound engineers, graphic designers, marketers, tour managers, and countless others. When piracy eats into music revenues, 71,060 jobs vanish across the industry and related sectors. These aren’t just artists—these are people working in retail, distribution, and support roles that keep the music ecosystem thriving.
💰 $2.7 Billion in Lost Earnings
For many artists, making a living from music is already challenging. Now imagine removing $2.7 billion in earnings from the equation. This is income that should go to creators and professionals who’ve poured their passion and talent into their work. Piracy undermines the entire value chain of music production.
🏛️ Governments Lose $422 Million in Tax Revenue
Piracy doesn’t just hurt the music industry; it affects public services. With $422 million in tax revenue lost annually, federal, state, and local governments miss out on funds that could support education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
🚨 The Ripple Effect
Music piracy might seem like a victimless crime, but the ripple effects are enormous. It stifles creativity, weakens industries, and reduces the economic contributions of one of the world’s most vibrant sectors.
At CEMU, we’re dedicated to fighting music piracy, not just for artists, but for the economic health of our communities.
📢 Join us in the fight to protect music, jobs, and the creative economy.
