Quick Thoughts on the Tariffs News

To whom it may concern,

I just wanted to share a few thoughts following the announcement about the U.S. tariffs on foreign-made films. It’s wild stuff.

First off, yeah, it sounds a bit nuts. It’s unclear how Trump would even enforce something like this. Tariffs on films? It’s a logistical mess. Are they going to screen every movie for Canadian shooting days? There are trade agreements like the USMCA (United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement, replacing NAFTA) that would likely challenge this kind of move.

That said, if it does go ahead in any form, I actually think there’s a silver lining, especially for Canadian productions. Productions that are already underway in Canada will likely finish; it’s too expensive to pull out mid-shoot. But we might see some new U.S. productions pause or shift until things become clearer. That could free up crews, gear, and space here, and create room for Canadian-led projects to step up and fill the gap.

These tariffs wouldn’t hit productions directly but would affect the distribution of films made outside the U.S., so studios might feel pressure not to shoot abroad if the final product is punished when brought home.

Plus, if the world pushes back with its own version of “no thanks” to U.S. content, international streamers are going to need new material, and this is a perfect moment for Canada to shine. We make strong films, we have the infrastructure, and we already know how to deliver for global audiences. If Hollywood blinks, we’re ready.

That said, for now, I totally get the hold-the-line messaging, the Minister’s office put it best:
” We want to reassure everyone that regardless of what President Trump does, we’re going to keep standing up for B.C. and the good jobs the motion picture industry creates here.”

We can sit around complaining about this, or we can get moving. The void will be real, and this could be the push Canadian creators need to fill it with stories that stand on their own, no U.S. distribution required.

Cheers,
Kind Regards,

Jon Summerland

Okanagan Film Commissioner

www.okanaganfilm.com