Trump’s 100% movie tariff: ‘I won’t be surprised if there’s pushback in the US’ – CEO CPASA
International films and commercials made in South Africa have contributed billions to the economy.
Picture: Pixabay
CapeTalk’s Lester Kiewit speaks with Bobby Amm, CEO of the Commercial Producers Association South Africa (CPASA).
Listen below:
South Africa has emerged as an excellent destination to make movies.
The combination of unique scenery, diverse local expertise, and the low cost of working here has led to many international films being made here.
This has pumped billions of rands into the local economy.
However, Donald Trump’s plan to impose 100% tariffs on movies produced outside of the US could change that.
If this tariff goes through, production in South Africa will be twice as expensive for American film producers.
This will not only affect American films shot here, but also local films which producers are hoping to show in America.
Amm says it is common for Hollywood movies to be shot in other parts of the world because it makes it more interesting for the viewers.
“The people who watch movies want to see interesting places. They don’t just want to see America.”
- Bobby Amm, CEO of the Commercial Producers Association South Africa
RELATED: Trump tariff hits wine industry: 'US importers already telling SA suppliers orders are cancelled'
Despite this cost going up for Americans, she says Trump has not done anything to incentivise or cut production costs at home.
“I will not be surprised if there is a bit of pushback from the industry in the US.”
- Bobby Amm, CEO of the Commercial Producers Association South Africa
Scroll up to the audio player for more.