Donald Trump has repeated his threat to introduce a 100% tariff on every film produced outside the United States. He said foreign nations had “stolen” America’s movie industry.
California at the center
On Monday, Trump argued that California had suffered the greatest damage. He insisted the levy would “solve this long time, never ending problem”. In May, he already revealed plans to meet Hollywood executives. At that time, he warned the US film sector was dying “a very fast death”.
Tariffs spread across industries
Trump’s remarks followed the rollout of new tariffs on several other products. These included a 100% levy on branded or patented drug imports and 50% tariffs on kitchen and bathroom cabinets. On Truth Social, he claimed America’s movie industry had been taken “like stealing candy from a baby”. He also criticized California’s governor as “weak and incompetent”.
Details still missing
Trump vowed to apply the 100% tariff to “any and all movies made outside of the United States”. He did not announce when the measure would begin. The White House has yet to respond. It remains unclear whether streaming services like Netflix would be included. No information was given on how the charges would be calculated.
Canadian business reacts
The Canadian Chamber of Commerce expressed “deep concern” about the proposal. It pointed out that American studios depend heavily on Canadian crews, facilities, and talent. Catherine Fortin-LeFaivre, senior vice president for international policy, warned the plan would punish US studios. She argued it would drive up costs, reduce investment, and harm both economies. She also said it could threaten thousands of middle-class jobs.
Analysts raise doubts
Investment analyst Dan Coatsworth of AJ Bell said the plan would be difficult to enforce. He noted that tariffs usually apply to goods, not films. He stressed that filmmakers often choose other countries for better tax incentives. He argued the threat “raises more questions than it does answers”. Coatsworth added that defining an American-made film would be complex with foreign actors, funding, or directors. He warned costs could rise, leading to higher prices for streaming and cinema customers. Despite this, he said investors showed little concern. Shares in Netflix and Disney dipped briefly before bouncing back.
More productions abroad
Recent major US films such as Deadpool & Wolverine, Wicked, and Gladiator II were shot outside the country. Research firm ProdPro confirmed the US remains central to global production. The industry saw $14.54 billion in spending last year, a 26% drop from 2022. Meanwhile, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK gained more production investment.
Britain keeps watch
British officials are awaiting clarity on how the US tariff could affect the UK. A spokesperson from the Department for Business & Trade stressed the country’s film industry employs millions and generates billions for the economy.
Furniture and timber in Trump’s sights
Trump also introduced 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 hinted at the measures 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 start on 14 October. Some levies will rise next year if trade deals are not made. These measures come after Trump’s earlier vow of 100% tariffs on branded or patented drug imports unless companies build factories in America.
