Trump’s 100% tariff on foreign films sparks concern in Bollywood, industry braces for fallout

In a move that has sent ripples across the global film industry, US President Donald Trump has announced a 100% tariff on all foreign-produced films, calling them a ‘national security threat’ and accusing them of spreading propaganda. The directive, made public via Trump’s Truth Social platform, specifically affects countries like India, whose thriving Bollywood industry has steadily grown its audience in the US.

The announcement has alarmed film producers and distributors in India. Bollywood has a substantial overseas market, particularly among the Indian diaspora in North America. A sudden doubling in import costs could lead to reduced distribution, limited theatrical releases, and increased ticket prices for Indian films in the US, potentially deterring viewers and diminishing box office collections.

Industry experts fear this move may severely hamper the earnings of big-budget Indian films, many of which now rely heavily on overseas revenue. 

Streaming platforms may see a temporary advantage, but even they could be pressured by regulatory fallout if digital content is included in the policy’s scope.

The move comes amid growing trade friction between the US and China, but India’s creative industry now finds itself caught in the crossfire.