Film Unions React to Trump’s Foreign Film Tariff Plan

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Over the weekend, President Trump expressed his intention to impose a full tariff on foreign movies, which some speculate may have been influenced by actor Jon Voight, who serves as a special Hollywood ambassador. According to The New York Times, Voight and his manager, Steven Paul, met with Trump to discuss a plan that includes federal tax incentives for U.S. productions. In a video posted by Variety, Voight stated, “Many jobs have been lost to productions that have moved overseas. I have presented suggestions to the President regarding certain tax provisions that could aid the industry. These could include extending some provisions and reviving or implementing others.” He added, “This would benefit movie and television production, as well as our cherished theaters, which play a significant role in the American family experience.

Although major film and TV unions didn’t openly support Trump’s statements, they shared the idea that more production should occur in the U.S. The union representing production workers, IATSE, issued a statement advocating for increased domestic filming while ensuring fairness towards Canadian productions. Matthew D. Loeb, International IATSE President, stated, “The U.S. requires a balanced federal policy to restore film and TV jobs.” He suggested that the Trump administration should implement a federal film production tax incentive and other domestic tax provisions to create a level playing field for American workers. IATSE is eagerly awaiting details about the proposed tariff plan, but they remain steadfast in their belief that any trade policy must not harm Canadian members or the industry as a whole. They are pushing for reciprocal trading practices that promote fair competition for all IATSE members.

The union that looks after on-screen actors, SAG-AFTRA, responded briefly to the President’s proposal. Duncan Crabtree-Ireland, their National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, wrote that SAG-AFTA supports initiatives boosting U.S. film, TV, and streaming production. They aim to push for policies that bolster our competitive edge, stimulate economic growth, and generate quality jobs for American workers in the middle class. They are eager to understand the details of the President’s plan and engage in discussions to reach mutual objectives.

For some time, there has been a growing interest among lawmakers about increasing domestic production. Last October, Governor Gavin Newsom of California suggested doubling the tax credit for productions filmed within the state. In reaction to Trump’s plan, a spokesperson for Newsom told The Wrap: “Newsom’s proposal to significantly increase California’s film and television tax credit demonstrates a dedication to keeping production local, providing jobs, and preserving our global position in entertainment… If Trump presents a detailed plan, we will examine it.

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2025-05-06 06:53