White House yet to decide on proposed 100% tariffs on foreign films

US President Donald Trump has proposed a 100% tariff on films produced outside the United States, citing a sharp decline in domestic film production and claiming the American movie industry is facing a “very fast death” due to foreign incentives luring filmmakers.

In his Truth Social post announcing the new tariff, Trump said he was authorizing the relevant government agencies such as the Department of Commerce to immediately begin the process of imposing a 100% tariff on all films produced abroad that are then sent into the United States. However, White House spokesman Kush Desai clarified on Monday that no final decision has been made and that all options remain under consideration.

A White House official noted that Hollywood experienced a nearly 30% drop in feature film shoot days during the first quarter of 2025, with just 451 days logged, underscoring concerns within the administration. No details have been released on the legal grounds or implementation process for the proposed tariffs, leaving the film industry uncertain about the potential impact.

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“Although no final decisions on foreign film tariffs have been made, the administration is exploring all options to deliver on President Trump’s directive to safeguard our country’s national and economic security while Making Hollywood Great Again,” Desai said.

The US Trade Representative’s office had no immediate comment. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said simply, ”We’re on it.”

With inputs from agencies