A “dying” industry faces 100% tariffs as announced by Donald Trump, with major global effects

Donald Trump has officially imposed a 100% tariff on foreign films, declaring that America’s movie industry has been “stolen” by other nations. The move, teased months ago, is now in effect and could reshape global entertainment.

The tariff applies to all films produced outside the U.S. On Truth Social, Trump argued that foreign countries had taken advantage of American filmmaking, blaming California’s leadership for the decline of Hollywood. He insisted the measure was necessary to “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.”

Trump previously framed the issue as a national security threat. He claimed foreign governments entice filmmakers with subsidies and incentives, while also embedding propaganda into their films. To counter this, he directed the Department of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative to enforce the new tariff.

Still, many questions remain unanswered. It is unclear how the rules will apply to American studios producing abroad, or to global streaming companies like Netflix that regularly fund international projects.

The policy may also affect theaters worldwide, creating uncertainty in both U.S. and overseas markets. Industry observers warn that audiences could face fewer options and higher costs.

China has already signaled retaliation. Earlier this year, after Trump raised tariffs on Chinese goods, Beijing reduced the number of U.S. films allowed into its theaters, warning that tariffs would further erode local support for American movies.

Trump’s latest measure escalates ongoing trade battles, setting the stage for a new era of confrontation between Hollywood and global film industries.