U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a potential 100% tariff on foreign-made films has sent shockwaves through Canada’s film sector, particularly in Toronto and Vancouver — key production hubs often dubbed “Hollywood North.”
The Canadian Media Producers Association warns the tariff could cause “significant disruption and economic hardship,” threatening thousands of jobs and billions in GDP. Toronto alone generated $1.8 billion in film-related economic activity in 2023, while B.C.’s industry produced $2.7 billion in GDP in 2022.
Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow and B.C. Premier David Eby both expressed deep concern over the lack of clarity and the potential harm to local economies and workers.
Industry experts like Prospero Pictures’ Martin Gass slammed the tariff plan as “nonsensical,” noting the uncertainty could stall future investments.
Meanwhile, actress Aisha Evelyna views the moment as a possible turning point: “Maybe this is the time to double down and bet on Canadians and what we can do.”
For now, the tariffs remain a proposal, but the industry is already bracing for the fallout.