Washington, September 29, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a dramatic new policy proposal, declaring that he would impose a 100 percent tariff on all movies produced outside of the United States.
The move, Trump argued, is aimed at protecting Hollywood and reviving the American film industry, which he claims has been undermined by foreign competition.
In a fiery post on Truth Social, Trump accused other nations of “stealing” the U.S. movie business, comparing it to “stealing candy from a baby.” He said the tariff would apply to “any and all” foreign-produced movies, though he did not clarify when the policy would take effect or how films partly shot abroad would be treated.
This is not the first time Trump has threatened such measures. Back in May, he warned that a 100 percent tariff on foreign films was under consideration, citing aggressive incentives offered by other countries to lure filmmakers away from Hollywood. He described the issue as both an economic problem and a national security concern, calling foreign productions a form of “messaging and propaganda.”
Critics, particularly California Democrats, have pushed back against Trump’s idea, warning that tariffs on international films could drive up ticket prices for American audiences and limit access to global cinema. Industry analysts also note that the plan could strain cultural exchange and spark trade disputes.
Despite the controversy, Trump’s proposal underscores his longstanding protectionist stance on U.S. industries and his appeal to voters concerned about globalization’s impact on American jobs.