New Delhi:

President Donald Trump declared a 100% tariff on films made overseas on Monday, stating that the US film industry is “dying very fast.”

He emphasized that various countries are providing incentives to lure filmmakers and studios away from the US, leaving Hollywood and many regions in disarray. This situation, he argued, is part of a coordinated effort by other nations and represents a national security threat.

Trump mentioned that this issue relates to messaging and propaganda, acknowledging the Department of Commerce and the US Trade Representative as he moves forward with implementing the 100% tariff on foreign-produced films entering the US.

US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick addressed the matter, hinting at ongoing efforts. However, it remains uncertain if these tariffs will affect foreign filmmakers or American producers working overseas.

This announcement follows China’s recent decision to “moderately reduce” the imports of US films, highlighting the tension between the two largest economies. A statement from the Chinese film administration criticized the US’s blanket tariffs on China, suggesting it could negatively impact how domestic audiences view American films.

Since his return to the White House in January, Trump has enacted global tariffs, contributing to a trade war with China that continues to unsettle the market.