President Donald Trump announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on movies made in foreign countries. He stated the action is aimed at protecting the domestic film industry, which he claimed is suffering.
Trump authorized the US Trade Representative and the Department of Commerce to begin the process for implementing the levy. He described other nations’ incentives for attracting filmmakers as a “National Security threat.”
He added that foreign films represent "messaging and propaganda." The president has previously appointed individuals to promote business opportunities in Hollywood, a sector he has described as troubled.
This move comes as the administration ramps up trade disputes with countries around the world. Since returning to the White House, Trump has imposed tariffs on various goods.
His administration argues that tariffs support US manufacturers and jobs. However, economists widely report that such actions can disrupt the global economy and increase prices for consumers.
China, the world's second-largest film market, previously responded to US tariff increases by reducing the quota of American movies permitted entry. This has impacted US studios like Disney, Paramount, and Warner Bros. Discovery.
Trump’s tariff actions include steep import taxes on Chinese goods, with some levies potentially reaching 245% when new tariffs are added to existing ones. Beijing has retaliated with duties on US goods.
The president stated he is meeting with many countries regarding trade deals. When asked about concluding agreements this week, he replied that could “very well be,” but provided no further information regarding potential trade talks.
Speaking on the policy, Trump stated, “WE WANT MOVIES MADE IN AMERICA, AGAIN!”
