Trump Imposes 100% Tariffs on Foreign Films and Furniture to Boost US Manufacturing Industries

US President Donald Trump has announced significant tariff measures aimed at protecting domestic industries. He declared his plan to implement "a 100% Tariff on any and all movies that are made outside of the United States" as well as "substantial tariffs on any country that does not make its furniture in the United States."

On Truth Social, President Trump claimed that America's "movie making business" has been taken by foreign countries "like candy from a baby." He specifically mentioned California as being "particularly hard hit" under what he described as "weak and incompetent" governance.

In a subsequent post, Trump addressed the furniture industry, stating his intention to make North Carolina "GREAT again" by imposing substantial tariffs on countries that don't manufacture their furniture within US borders. The state has reportedly "completely lost its furniture business to China, and other Countries," according to the President.

Hollywood has been facing significant challenges in recent years. The rise of streaming platforms has reduced movie theater attendance, resulting in declining box office revenues and decreased production. The industry suffered further setbacks in 2023 and 2024 due to strikes by the Writers Guild and labor unions, with estimated losses reaching $5 billion in 2023 alone. Reports indicate that jobs lost during these strikes have yet to be recovered.

In August, President Trump announced an investigation into all furniture imports entering the US. He stated that within 50 days, the investigation would be completed, and imported furniture would face tariffs at rates "yet to be determined." Trump claimed this measure would revitalize the furniture business across various states including North Carolina, South Carolina, and Michigan.

On Thursday, Trump revealed specific tariff measures taking effect October 1, including a 50% tariff on "all Kitchen Cabinets, Bathroom Vanities, and associated products" and a 30% tariff on "Upholstered Furniture."

Employment in furniture and wood product manufacturing has decreased by half since 2000. In 2024, the US imported approximately $25.5 billion worth of furniture, with over half coming from Vietnam and China.

These import duties will make it more difficult for companies to maintain stable prices. Costs for various consumer goods from clothing to televisions have increased significantly in recent months as businesses navigate the changing tariff landscape while also dealing with rising commodity and supply chain expenses.