US President Donald Trump’s latest move to slap a 100% tariff on foreign films has sent shockwaves through the global cinema landscape, with Indian filmmakers weighing in on the potential impact.
Industry Insiders React
The proposed tariff has sparked a mixed reaction from Indian filmmakers, with some expressing concerns about the potential consequences, while others downplaying its significance.
Film director Mahesh Bhatt believes the tariff was inevitable but questions its far-reaching implications. “This was bound to happen,” Bhatt said. “The real question is how deep its impact will be and whether it will also apply to streaming platforms.”
Bhatt pointed out that Telugu films are in high demand in the US, and the tariff will likely affect everyone involved. “Distributors used to spend ₹100; now they’ll have to pay ₹200,” he explained. “Clearly, this will reduce the flow of films.”
On the other hand, filmmaker Vikram Bhatt thinks the tariff’s impact on Indian cinema will be limited. “Most of our films don’t reach markets like the US and the UK,” he said. “Only big-budget films make it there. The foreign market for mid- and low-budget films is already restricted.”
Vikram added that only mega-budget films might still be shown in the US, given the high screening costs. “Our films aren’t shot in the US, so what’s the point of imposing a tariff on them?”
A Call to Action
Vivek Agnihotri, another prominent filmmaker, has strongly criticized Trump’s move. In an X post, he described the 100% tariff as “a disastrous step” that could cripple India’s struggling film industry.
Agnihotri urged Indian film leaders to unite against this threat. “Instead of chasing paparazzi and self-praise, they should fight this danger,” he said.
The reactions from these industry heavyweights highlight the uncertainty and concern surrounding Trump’s tariff announcement. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the global film industry is watching with bated breath.