Trump Advocates 100% Tariff on Foreign Films Following Jon Voight’s Call for Limited Tariffs

In a surprising move, former President Donald Trump announced a 100% tariff on films produced outside the US. This decision came right after his meeting with actor Jon Voight, who had been discussing ways to boost film production in America. Voight, known for his roles in classics like Midnight Cowboy, was named a “special ambassador” to Hollywood by Trump.

For months, Voight has been collaborating with various studios and film unions to create a plan to bring productions back to the US. Many filmmakers are drawn to countries like Canada, Australia, and the UK for their financial perks, picturesque landscapes, and skilled talent. These locations often provide more affordable filming options due to tax incentives and other benefits.

Voight’s proposal, unveiled on Monday, included suggestions for federal tax incentives and changes to tax codes. However, it only hinted at limited use of tariffs, contrasting sharply with Trump’s sweeping announcement. While Voight and his team were at Mar-A-Lago to present these ideas, Trump’s plan took the film industry by storm.

Hollywood has undergone significant changes, with production in Los Angeles declining by nearly 40% over the past decade, as reported by FilmLA. Some of this decline is due to filmmakers opting for other American states that offer generous incentives, such as New York and Georgia. This shift indicates a broader trend in the industry moving towards cost-effective solutions, raising concerns about domestic job losses.

Reactions to Trump’s tariff announcement have been mixed. Many industry stakeholders are unsure how the tariffs will be implemented. For instance, how will a film be classified as “foreign”? Films like Marvel’s Thunderbolts were largely shot in the US but still have international elements.

The Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) expressed support for domestic film production, while the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) called for a balanced approach. They emphasize the need for incentives that benefit domestic workers without harming international partnerships. Meanwhile, concerns have arisen from countries like Australia and the UK, fearing the tariffs could damage their own film industries.

In Australia, nearly half of the A$1.7 billion spent on screen production in the 2023-24 period was on international projects. Australian Arts Minister Tony Burke is closely monitoring developments, affirming the importance of protecting the local industry.

The potential impact of these tariffs on Hollywood and international cinema is still unfolding. As the film landscape continues to evolve, the ongoing discussions among actors, unions, and government officials illustrate the challenges and opportunities facing the industry today.

For more context on the implications of these tariffs on global cinema, you can read more from The Guardian.

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