How Trump’s New 100% Film Tariff Could Affect Nollywood’s Growth

U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced plans to introduce a 100 percent tariff on foreign films imported into the United States. 

While Trump’s main goal is to help the U.S. movie industry, his action could affect other countries too including Nollywood, Nigeria’s fast-growing film industry.

For years, Nigerian filmmakers have taken their movies to international festivals, premieres, and private screenings in the U.S. Cities like New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Houston have become popular destinations where Nigerian movies are shown to diasporan audiences and potential distributors.

Here’s how Trump’s proposed tariffs could negatively affect Nollywood:

1. Higher Costs to Showcase Nollywood Films in the U.S.With a 100% import tariff, it would become extremely expensive to take Nigerian films into the U.S. This means smaller filmmakers and independent producers may struggle to afford the costs of showcasing their films at major U.S. events or cinemas.

Festivals that usually screen Nollywood films could also raise their fees, making it harder for Nigerian stories to reach American audiences.

2. Reduced Exposure to Diaspora AudiencesNigerian filmmakers often rely on the large Nigerian and African diaspora community in America for film premieres, screenings, and sales.

A huge tariff could discourage distribution companies and cinemas from accepting Nigerian films, shrinking the audience base and limiting the global exposure of Nollywood movies.

3. Impact on International Film CollaborationsNollywood has increasingly collaborated with American studios, actors, and distributors. If Trump’s policy forces stricter restrictions and higher costs, these collaborations could be reduced.

Joint projects, co-productions, and cross-cultural films that Nollywood has been tapping into might decline.

4. Discouraging Independent Nigerian FilmmakersIndependent and upcoming filmmakers in Nigeria who dream of breaking into the U.S. market could be discouraged.

The U.S. is often seen as a big stage to gain international credibility, but with added financial barriers, many filmmakers may have to look to Europe, Canada, or Asia instead.

5. Shift to Other International MarketsIf the U.S. market becomes too expensive or inaccessible, Nigerian filmmakers might start to prioritize other countries like Canada, the UK, or France, where visa policies and film regulations might be more favorable. This could shift the current pattern where the U.S. is a top choice for premieres and business deals.