US
President Donald Trump has sparked a new controversy by
announcing a 100% tariff on all foreign films, a measure that
seeks to revitalize the local film industry but directly jeopardizes
numerous Japanese productions scheduled for this year.
The
announcement was made last weekend, May 4th and 5th, via the
social media platform Truth Social, where Trump declared that American cinema
“ is dying at a very rapid rate ” and that restrictions are
needed to protect it.
Anime
among the biggest losers
The
decision to implement a 100% tariff greatly complicates the
distribution of anime films in the United States, one of the
most profitable markets in the world for the industry. This could delay,
increase the cost of, or even cancel the release of highly anticipated
productions by fans.
Titles in the spotlight include:
- Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba - Infinite Castle
- Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze
Arc
- Mobile
Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning
- Lupin
the Third: The Movie
Additionally,
the popular re-releases of classic anime films , which have
been well-received in North American theaters in recent months, will also be
impacted by this new policy.
Impact
beyond cinema
The
uncertainty also extends to streaming platforms like Crunchyroll ,
given that some productions debut in theaters before reaching digital formats.
Although there's no official confirmation yet, there are fears that the measure
will complicate licensing, distribution agreements, and the release schedule
across the board.
Japanese
studios have yet
to comment on the matter, but the industry as a whole is watching with concern.
The immediate stock market plunge of major companies like
Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery, and Paramount confirms that the announcement
has had a domino effect.
A
barrier to international cinema
The measure
does not yet have an official effective date , but it is
already being processed by the U.S. Department of Commerce. As
proposed, the tariff would apply to all film productions made outside the
country, affecting both blockbusters and independent films.
For foreign
studios, this could mean budget cuts, lower box office revenue, and a
reduced presence in the competitive North American market. In the case
of anime, it could mean a significant setback in its global expansion .
The
president's final statement, " We want movies made in America
again! ", makes the intention of this measure clear, but its
consequences could close the door on one of the most beloved genres for young
audiences worldwide.
