US President Donald Trump has unveiled a sweeping new round of trade tariffs, targeting two unlikely sectors — foreign-made films and imported furniture. In a series of posts on Truth Social, the president declared his plan to impose a 100% tariff on all movies produced outside the United States and introduce “substantial” tariffs on furniture made overseas.

Trump claimed that America’s once-thriving movie industry has been “stolen” by other nations. “The movie-making business has been taken from us like candy from a baby,” he wrote, blaming poor leadership in states like California for Hollywood’s decline. “To fix this long-standing issue, I’ll be placing a 100% tariff on any and all films made outside the United States.”

Shortly after, Trump turned his attention to the furniture industry, announcing that countries which don’t manufacture furniture within the US will face new tariffs. “North Carolina lost its furniture business to China and others,” he said. “We’re bringing it back. Tariffs are coming soon.”

He added that further details would be shared later.

Struggling Industries

The US film sector has faced major challenges in recent years, including declining box office revenue due to the rise of streaming platforms and a prolonged double strike by Writers Guild and Hollywood labour unions, which cost the industry an estimated $5 billion in 2023. Many production jobs lost during that period have yet to return.

Meanwhile, Trump has repeatedly expressed concern over the collapse of the US furniture manufacturing sector, especially in North Carolina, once a key hub for the trade. He previously launched an investigation into furniture imports, promising to complete it within 50 days and set new tariff rates.

Just days ago, Trump announced that beginning October 1, 2025, the US will impose a 50% tariff on kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities, and a 30% tariff on upholstered furniture.

Economic Impact

According to Reuters, US furniture manufacturing jobs have dropped by half since 2000. In 2024 alone, the US imported $25.5 billion worth of furniture, over half from China and Vietnam. Analysts warn that Trump’s proposed import duties could increase prices for American consumers, as companies struggle to balance higher production and import costs.

The ripple effects of tariffs are already visible across industries — from clothing to electronics — where prices have surged due to shifting trade policies and rising supply chain expenses.

Economists say Trump’s latest move signals a tougher “America First” trade stance, aimed at reviving domestic production — even as it risks higher consumer costs and potential trade tensions abroad.