U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to impose a 100% tariff on all films produced outside the United States, citing concerns over the decline of the American film industry and potential national security threats. The announcement, made on Trump's Truth Social platform on May 4, 2025, has sent shockwaves through the global entertainment industry.

"The Movie Industry in America is DYING a very fast death," Trump wrote. "Other Countries are offering all sorts of incentives to draw our filmmakers and studios away from the United States. Hollywood, and many other areas within the U.S.A., are being devastated."

Trump characterized the situation as a "concerted effort by other Nations" and a "National Security threat," adding that foreign-made films constitute "messaging and propaganda." He has directed the Department of Commerce and the United States Trade Representative to "immediately begin the process of instituting a 100% Tariff on any and all Movies coming into our Country that are produced in Foreign Lands."

The announcement has raised concerns in countries with significant film industries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. These nations have long been popular locations for Hollywood productions due to lower costs and tax incentives.

Australian Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke stated that the government would "stand up for the Australian film industry" in response to Trump's announcement. Similarly, New Zealand officials are reportedly discussing the potential impact of the tariffs on their local film sector.

The proposed tariffs have also sparked debate within the U.S. film industry. While some view the move as a potential boost for domestic production, others worry about the impact on international collaborations and the global market for American films.

Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur criticized the move on social media, warning that it could backfire. "Over 75% of box office of Hollywood films come from outside the US. And significant part of the budget of those films are spent outside the US," Kapur wrote. "President Trump's imposition of 100% tariff on all films imported into the US may encourage Hollywood to move outside the US!"

The announcement has already affected the stock market, with shares of major media companies like Netflix, Disney, and Paramount falling in pre-market trading.

It remains unclear how such tariffs would be implemented, given the complex nature of modern film production, which often involves work in multiple countries. The White House has not yet provided details on how the tariffs would be applied or when they might take effect.

As the global film industry grapples with this development, many are questioning the potential long-term impacts on international co-productions, film distribution, and cultural exchange through cinema. The move also adds another layer to ongoing trade tensions between the United States and several of its trading partners.