Film Industry In Canada Closes Ranks Amid Trump Tariffs Threat: “It’s a Moment”

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Canadian politicians are urging unity and solidarity as the potential 25% tariffs from Donald Trump create an uncertain future for Canada‘s domestic film and television industry, which is deeply connected to Hollywood and the American economy. Although these tariffs have been temporarily put on hold for 30 days, there remains a lingering cloud of doubt over the industry.

As a gamer, let me share that the next 30 days are our chance, on both sides of the virtual frontier, to showcase our solid partnerships. It’s crucial we keep collaborating for the best outcomes. I expressed this very thought to The Hollywood Reporter yesterday.

Last year, she delivered a speech at Pinewood Toronto Studios, located in the city’s Portlands area. Exactly a year ago, Amazon MGM Studios officially signed a multiyear lease for 160,000 square feet of fresh soundstages and office space within this massive film production facility.

Dabrusin contends that for many years, Hollywood producers have been attracted to Canada due to lucrative tax incentives and currency advantages, and under the threat of U.S. tariffs, they are unlikely to seek alternatives. She emphasizes that there is already a high level of curiosity and familiarity with the talent pool and highly skilled crews in Canada, which support the industry.

“We’re a well-known entity, and we’ve shown a proven track record,” Dabrusin added.

Paula Fletcher, who has served as a city councillor in Toronto-Danforth for a long time at the municipal level, believes that Ontario’s established connections with Hollywood and a well-known track record of labor and tax credit consistency can offset any potential negative effects caused by Trump’s assertive protectionist stance.

Fletcher stated that the film industry, being a service-oriented and people-centric business, might be shielded from Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs and any retaliatory tariffs Canada could impose on the U.S., should the 30-day negotiation pause end without a cross-border agreement in place.

In contrast to industries like automotive, mining, fertilizers, or lumber, the world of films is unique and distinct. I’m optimistic that it can rise above the current events, preserving all our connections, ensuring a thriving film industry remains unaffected by any tariff-related repercussions.

The Canadian entertainment industry encounters hurdles from other regions, such as significant Hollywood production companies reducing their investment in new content while resuming filming original productions north of the U.S.-Canada border following the 2023 Hollywood actors’ and writers’ strikes.

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2025-02-05 00:24