Trump’s new 100% tariff on foreign films could hit B.C.’s $2.3B film sector, risking jobs and cross-border productions as Hollywood faces global shifts.
Hollywood Under Fire: Trump Slaps 100% Tariff on Foreign Films
On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a sweeping 100% tariff on all movies produced outside the United States-a move that could send shockwaves through British Columbia’s multi-billion dollar film and television industry. Trump claims the measure is needed to combat foreign incentives luring American studios abroad, calling it a “national security threat” to Hollywood.
B.C. Film Sector Faces Uncertainty
The announcement comes as B.C. ramps up tax credits for foreign productions, hoping to keep its world-class crews and studios busy. In 2023, the province’s film and TV production was valued at $2.3 billion, but already felt the sting of pandemic disruptions and Hollywood strikes. Now, with a new tariff looming, the future of cross-border productions is at risk.
Jobs and Local Economies in the Crosshairs
Vancouver, North America’s third-largest film hub, employs 26,000 people in the industry. Local officials and businesses fear Trump’s move could deter Hollywood studios from filming in Canada, threatening thousands of jobs and hundreds of millions in economic activity.
Global Productions in Limbo
The details of how the tariff will be enforced remain unclear, especially for films with international shoots and post-production. With Hollywood’s global model under pressure, industry insiders warn that both American and Canadian film sectors could face higher costs, fewer projects, and shrinking opportunities.
B.C. Doubles Down on Incentives
In response to industry headwinds, B.C. Premier David Eby recently boosted tax credits for foreign productions from 28% to 36%, aiming to keep the province attractive to international filmmakers. However, Trump’s tariff could undermine these efforts, making it harder for B.C. to compete on the global stage.
As Hollywood and B.C. brace for impact, the future of cross-border film production hangs in the balance. Will creativity or protectionism win out? Stay tuned as the story unfolds.
