New Zealand Film Commission chief executive Annie Murray.
Photo: Supplied / New Zealand Film Commission
The New Zealand film industry is anxiously awaiting more details of Donald Trump’s move to slap 100 percent tariffs on movies made outside of the United States.
The US President said Hollywood is dying a “very fast death” due to the incentives that other countries are using to attract American filmmakers.
In 2023 New Zealand provided nearly $200 million worth of rebates and incentives for US companies to film here.
The scheme has seen American productions responsible for just over a third of the $3.5 billion generated by the film industry each year.
The Screen Production and Development Association, SPADA, said it is still unclear whether Trump’s tarrif move is only targeting US movies filmed here or will also penalise New Zealand films wanting to show in the United States.
It said either way the decision is a terrible shame.
Film Commission head Annie Murray said the commission is still in the process of speaking with international partners about the implications.
It was too early to say what the tariffs could mean, she said, as it was an evolving situation.
Labour’s leader said the government should vigorously oppose the tax.
Chris Hipkins said it would be disastrous for New Zealand, as the industry is incredibly important for the country, bringing in millions of dollars a year and generating a lot of well-paying jobs.
He said if the United States’ industry wants to compete, it should – but imposing punitive trade barriers is not the way forward.
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