Donald Trump has again vowed to impose a 100% tariff on all films made outside the United States. He argued that foreign countries had “stolen” America’s movie business.
California under Trump’s criticism
On Monday, Trump said California had been hit especially hard. He claimed the levy would “solve this long time, never ending problem”. In May, he already spoke about meeting Hollywood executives. At that time, he warned the American film sector was dying “a very fast death”.
Tariffs already hitting other markets
Trump’s remarks came after he rolled out new tariffs in other industries. These included a 100% levy on branded or patented drug imports and 50% tariffs on kitchen and bathroom cabinets. On Truth Social, he wrote that America’s film industry had been taken “like stealing candy from a baby”. He also attacked California’s governor, calling him “weak and incompetent”.
Implementation unclear
Trump promised to apply the 100% tariff to “any and all movies made outside of the United States”. He did not reveal when the measure would start. The White House has not commented. It is also unclear whether streaming platforms such as Netflix will be affected. No details have been given on how the levy would be calculated.
Canada pushes back
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce said it was “deeply concerned” by the proposal. It underlined that US studios rely heavily on Canadian crews, talent, and facilities. Catherine Fortin-LeFaivre, senior vice president for international policy, warned the tariffs would punish American studios. She argued the plan would drive up costs, deter investment, and harm both economies. She added it could also endanger thousands of middle-class jobs.
Experts raise red flags
Investment analyst Dan Coatsworth of AJ Bell questioned how the tariff could work. He explained tariffs usually apply to goods, not creative works. He said many filmmakers choose foreign locations because of better tax incentives. According to him, the plan “raises more questions than it does answers”. Coatsworth added that defining an American-made movie would be complicated when international actors or funding are involved. He warned higher costs could affect cinemas and streaming services. Still, he noted that investors seemed unconcerned. Netflix and Disney shares fell briefly before recovering.
More movies filmed abroad
Recent US productions such as Deadpool & Wolverine, Wicked, and Gladiator II were shot outside America. Research firm ProdPro reported that the US remains a key global hub for production. Spending reached $14.54 billion last year, a decline of 26% from 2022. Since then, countries including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK have seen rising investment.
Britain awaits clarification
Officials in London said they are waiting for details on how the US tariffs could affect British studios. A spokesperson for the Department for Business & Trade stressed that the UK film sector employs millions of people and generates billions for the economy.
Trump widens trade offensive
Trump also announced fresh tariffs on wood and furniture on Monday. He set a 10% levy on softwood timber and lumber and 25% tariffs on kitchen cabinets, vanities, and upholstered wooden furniture. Earlier that day, he teased the plan on Truth Social. He promised “substantial tariffs on any country that does not make its furniture in the United States”. A presidential proclamation confirmed the tariffs will begin on 14 October. Some will rise further next year if countries fail to reach deals. These measures follow Trump’s earlier announcement of 100% tariffs on branded or patented drug imports unless firms build factories in America.
