Trump Proposes 100% Tariff on Foreign Films to Bolster U.S. Movie Industry Amid Trade Tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a proposal for a 100% tariff on all imported films, aiming to strengthen the American film industry and protect U.S. jobs. Citing concerns over declining domestic film influence and job losses as studios pursue foreign incentives, Trump has labeled this a national security issue and instructed the Department of Commerce and U.S. Trade Representative to begin the tariff process. The initiative intends to boost domestic production, preserve U.S. cultural influence, and promote soft power. China, already the world’s second-largest film market, retaliated by reducing the number of American movies permitted for screening, further shrinking Hollywood’s stake in the Chinese box office from 36% in 2018 to 14% in 2024. This escalating trade tension—now also affecting major studios like Disney, Warner Bros., and Paramount—could trigger reciprocal barriers in other countries and limit the diversity of films in the U.S. While there is no direct connection to cryptocurrency, major trade policy changes can increase investor uncertainty and contribute to volatility across financial markets, including digital assets. Crypto traders should monitor for possible spillover effects as global policy shifts unfold.