Donald Trump Announces 100% Tariff on Foreign Films

U.S. President Donald Trump shocked the global film industry on Monday by announcing a 100% tariff on all movies made outside the United States. The announcement came in a fiery post on his Truth Social account, where Trump claimed that foreign productions were “stealing” American film jobs.

What Did Trump Say?

In his Truth Social post, Trump wrote: “Our movie making business has been stolen from the United States of America, by other Countries, just like stealing candy from a baby. California, with its weak and incompetent Governor, has been particularly hard hit!”

He further declared: “Therefore, in order to solve this long time, never ending problem, I will be imposing a 100% Tariff on any and all movies that are made outside of the United States. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

So far, there has been no executive order, rulemaking, or guidance on how the tariff would be applied. The White House also declined to comment on Trump’s announcement.

Can a 100% Film Tariff Be Enforced?

Experts are doubtful. Movies are digital intellectual property and are often co-produced across multiple countries. Analysts warn that it is unclear how U.S. customs would define the “country of origin” for films or streaming content.

Legal experts also note that U.S. law may block Trump’s plan. The International Emergency Economic Powers Act excludes films and other “informational materials” from certain trade restrictions. Without Congressional approval, a blanket tariff may not be possible.

Why This Matters for Hollywood

The U.S. actually has a trade surplus in filmed entertainment. According to the Motion Picture Association, American films earned $22.6 billion in exports in 2023, creating a $15.3 billion trade surplus.

If other countries retaliate, U.S. studios could lose access to overseas markets, which often make up more than half of their total box office revenue. Stocks of several entertainment companies dropped shortly after Trump’s post.

Political Reactions

Trump’s announcement drew sharp responses from California officials and members of Congress:

• Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X: “You’re already paying more for eggs, coffee, toys, shoes, electricity, furniture, cars, and flights. Now, Trump wants to raise taxes to see the movies. PAY MORE AND ENJOY NOTHING. That’s Donald Trump’s America.”

• Representative Laura Friedman said the tariff would only “raise costs for consumers” and urged Congress to consider a national film tax credit.

• Senator Adam Schiff added: “Congress should pass a bipartisan, globally competitive federal film incentive to bring back production and jobs, rather than levy a tariff that could have unintended and damaging consequences.”

Bottom Line

Trump’s announcement has created uncertainty for the film industry worldwide. With no legal framework, timeline, or enforcement plan, the 100% movie tariff remains a political statement rather than an active policy. However, the threat of retaliation and higher costs for audiences is already worrying investors, studios, and global filmmakers.