Trump Revives Push for 100% Tariff on Non-US Films, Sparking Industry Backlash

Former President Donald Trump has doubled down on his threat to slap a 100% tariff on all films not produced in the United States, warning that Hollywood has been “stolen” by foreign competitors and vowing to reclaim America’s dominance in moviemaking.

Speaking on Monday, Trump said California—long the heart of America’s film industry—had been hit hardest and that his proposed tariff would “finally solve this long time, never-ending problem.”

This isn’t the first time Trump has floated such an idea. Back in May, he announced plans to meet Hollywood executives about his levy, arguing that the U.S. film industry was facing a “very fast death.” His renewed comments come on the heels of a fresh wave of tariffs announced last week, which included a 100% levy on branded drug imports and steep tariffs on kitchen and bathroom cabinets.

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

What Would Be Taxed?

Trump declared the 100% tariff would apply to “any and all movies made outside the United States.”

However, key questions remain:

• Would this include films on streaming services such as Netflix, as well as cinema releases?
• How exactly would the tariffs be calculated?
• What counts as an “American-made” movie if foreign actors, directors, or funding are involved?

So far, the White House has not clarified when—or if—the tariff could take effect.

Industry and Investor Concerns

The proposal has drawn sharp criticism from trade groups and industry watchers. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce voiced deep concern, warning that such tariffs would punish U.S. studios that rely heavily on Canadian facilities, crews, and expertise to produce blockbuster films.

“These tariffs risk punishing U.S. studios for filming in Canada by driving up costs, stifling investment, and undermining the competitive advantage our countries have built together,” said Catherine Fortin-LeFaivre, the Chamber’s senior vice president of international policy. She warned it would weaken both economies and threaten thousands of middle-class jobs.

Dan Coatsworth, an investment analyst at AJ Bell, questioned the practicality of the plan:

“The threat of 100% tariffs on movies made outside of the U.S. raises more questions than answers. Filmmakers have been lured abroad by tax incentives, and Los Angeles has already lost much of its shine.”

He added that forcing films to be made entirely in the U.S. could drive up production costs, which would likely be passed on to consumers through higher prices for cinema tickets and streaming subscriptions.

For now, investors seem unconvinced the measure will move forward. Stocks in Netflix and Disney dipped briefly after Trump’s remarks before bouncing back.

Hollywood’s Global Footprint

Several recent U.S. studio blockbusters—including Deadpool & Wolverine, Wicked, and Gladiator II—were all filmed outside of America, underlining how international production has become integral to Hollywood’s business model.

Despite challenges, the U.S. remains a global hub for filmmaking. Research firm ProdPro reported $14.54 billion in production spending in 2023, though that figure marked a sharp 26% drop from 2022. Countries like Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the UK have all attracted rising shares of big-budget productions thanks to generous tax breaks and government support.

In Britain, officials say they are closely monitoring the situation. The Department for Business & Trade highlighted that the UK’s film industry employs millions and contributes billions to the economy, making any U.S. tariff policy a matter of serious concern.

More Tariffs Beyond Film

Trump also broadened his tariff offensive beyond entertainment. On Monday, he announced new duties on imported softwood lumber, kitchen cabinets, vanities, and upholstered wooden furniture—with rates ranging from 10% to 25%. Some of these tariffs will take effect on October 14, with higher increases expected next year for countries that don’t strike agreements with Washington.

“Substantial Tariffs on any Country that does not make its furniture in the United States. Details to follow!!!” Trump teased in a Truth Social post.

The Bottom Line

Trump’s fiery proposal has reignited debate about America’s role in the global film industry. While intended to protect Hollywood jobs and restore domestic production, experts warn such tariffs could raise costs, spark trade disputes, and backfire on U.S. studios themselves.

For now, the 100% movie tariff remains a threat on paper. But with Trump leaning harder into protectionist trade policies, both Hollywood and America’s trading partners are bracing for what could become the most dramatic shakeup in global film production in decades.