Donald Trump Declares 100% Tariff on Non-U.S. Films, Tollywood Faces Major Blow

In an unexpected announcement, President Donald Trump has confirmed a 100% tariff on foreign films, a move he says will protect and strengthen the American movie industry. The declaration has already sparked anxiety within Tollywood and the wider Indian film fraternity, which rely heavily on the U.S. audience for revenue.

Trump had signaled this possibility earlier in May, when he instructed the Department of Commerce and the U.S. Trade Representative to examine stricter trade measures against overseas films.

On Truth Social, Trump posted a sharp statement:

“Our great movie industry has been stolen by foreign countries. California, with its weak leadership, has suffered badly. To solve this never-ending issue, I am placing a 100% tariff on every movie made outside the USA. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

The United States has consistently been the largest international market for Indian cinema, especially Tollywood blockbusters, and this decision is being described as a huge setback. While there is no official clarity yet on when the tariff policy will take effect, trade circles predict that the extra costs will be pushed onto audiences, with ticket rates expected to rise significantly.

For filmmakers and distributors, the uncertainty is worrying. For audiences, it could mean paying more to enjoy their favorite Indian movies in American theaters.