US President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on all films made outside the United States, declaring it a move to save the American film industry, which he says is “dying a very fast death,” BBC reported.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated he had authorised the Department of Commerce and the US Trade Representative to begin implementing the measure, citing foreign incentives for film production as a “national security threat.”
Trump blamed countries like the UK, Canada, and Australia for attracting US filmmakers and studios with tax benefits and lower production costs.
“It is, in addition to everything else, messaging and propaganda!” he posted. “WE WANT MOVIES MADE IN AMERICA, AGAIN!”
While the proposal marks a significant escalation in his ongoing trade-offensives, it has raised alarm across the international entertainment sector.
UK media union Bectu called the plan a “knock-out blow” to the global industry and warned it could threaten the livelihoods of tens of thousands of freelancers just recovering from the pandemic and industry slowdown.
Experts say the tariffs could disrupt international cooperation in filmmaking, while critics question how such a policy would be implemented.
It’s still unclear whether the tariffs would apply to American production companies filming abroad or include films distributed through streaming platforms.
Timothy Richards, founder of European cinema chain Vue, questioned how US origin would be determined: “Is it where the money comes from? The script, the director, the talent, where it was shot?”
Meanwhile, the US Commerce Secretary said, “We’re on it,” though no detailed guidelines have been issued.
Other countries, including Australia and New Zealand, have vowed to defend their domestic film sectors.
Industry analysts warn the move could trigger retaliatory tariffs and risk further isolating Hollywood from international markets.
