U.S. President Donald Trump announced a sweeping 100% tariff on movies produced outside the country, doubling down on efforts to protect the domestic film industry. In a Truth Social post Monday, he claimed America’s movie-making sector had been “stolen” by foreign nations offering incentives that lure Hollywood productions abroad.
“Our movie making business has been stolen from the United States of America, by other Countries, just like stealing ‘candy from a baby.’ California, with its weak and incompetent Governor, has been particularly hard hit! Therefore, in order to solve this long time, never ending problem, I will be imposing a 100% Tariff on any and all movies that are made outside of the United States. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! President DJT,” Trump wrote.
The announcement offered no timeline for enforcement or details on implementation, leaving industry players uncertain about its scope. Trump said he had authorized the Department of Commerce to begin the process but specifics remain unclear.
This marks the second time Trump has announced such a measure, following a similar declaration in May. Then, he argued that foreign film incentives were hollowing out Hollywood, describing the trend as a national security threat.
It is unclear whether Monday’s move expands on the earlier tariff or merely restates it, adding to uncertainty for international film distributors and studios. Trump has framed the policy as a tool to “save” the U.S. film industry, but analysts warn of trade retaliation and higher consumer costs.