Trump Announces 100% Tariff on Foreign Films, Sparking Global Uncertainty

Donald Trump has announced a 100% tariff on all films produced outside the United States, arguing that the move is necessary to “revive” the American film industry and bring back jobs that, according to him, have been lost to foreign productions.

The announcement, made via his social media platform, has sparked mixed reactions both at home and abroad. While some view the measure as a patriotic effort to strengthen Hollywood, others criticize it as a direct attack on creative freedom and international cooperation in filmmaking.

Among the strongest supporters of the tariff is actor Jon Voight, who has been appointed by Trump as a “Hollywood ambassador.” Voight stated that the measure is essential to “protect American jobs in the film industry.”

Sean M. O’Brien, president of the Teamsters union, also endorsed the decision and accused Hollywood studios of putting profits over people by outsourcing productions, which he claims has weakened the local economy.

On the other hand, figures like actress Whoopi Goldberg have voiced strong opposition, arguing that filming abroad is often necessary for storytelling authenticity, and that such policies could stifle creative freedom and international collaboration.

The British film industry—bolstered in recent decades by tax incentives and partnerships with American studios—has expressed serious concerns. Industry representatives warned that the new tariffs could discourage U.S. studios from filming in the U.K., leading to economic losses and the cancellation of major productions.

In Australia, home to a booming film sector often referred to as “Aussiewood,” concerns are also mounting. Several industry voices have called on actor Mel Gibson, who has strong ties to both countries’ film sectors, to intervene and try to persuade Trump to reverse the decision.

Meanwhile, Latin America has responded with more caution. Mexico, a leading audiovisual producer in the region, has yet to issue an official statement. Neither the National Chamber of the Cinematographic Industry nor the Mexican Institute of Cinematography has commented. Analysts suggest the region is taking a wait-and-see approach, assessing the potential impact on their creative economies.

Although Trump has instructed the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to begin the process of implementing the tariff, the White House has clarified that no final decision has been made. The administration is said to be exploring various paths to fulfill the president’s directive while aiming to protect national and economic security.

For now, the global film industry remains on edge, awaiting further details about when and how the tariffs might be enforced, and what their ultimate impact will be on the production, distribution, and consumption of films worldwide.