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Trump’s Foreign Film Tariff Proposal Faces Pushback at Cannes

As the White House confirms no final decisions, Hollywood unions and studios urge tax incentives to counter production flight overseas.

A view from behind the Hollywood sign on September 29, 2022, in Los Angeles.
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Cannes Film Festival General Delegate Thierry Fremaux attends a press conference on the eve of the opening ceremony of the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, May 12, 2025. REUTERS/Sarah Meyssonnier

Overview

  • President Trump’s proposal for 100% tariffs on foreign-made films remains undeveloped, with the White House emphasizing ongoing discussions with stakeholders.
  • A coalition of Hollywood unions and studios has formally urged the administration to support federal tax incentives to retain and attract film production in the U.S.
  • At the Cannes Film Festival, director Thierry Frémaux and actor Robert De Niro criticized the tariff proposal, highlighting its potential global cultural and economic impact.
  • Industry experts continue to question the feasibility of defining and enforcing tariffs in a globalized film production environment.
  • California Governor Gavin Newsom has proposed a $7.5 billion federal tax credit plan as an alternative to tariffs, aiming to revitalize domestic production.