UK Film Industry Response to US Trade Threat Sparks Debate in London
The UK film industry’s response to the US trade threat is gathering pace, as Donald Trump’s suggestion of a 100% levy on films made outside the United States continues to ripple through the global production community. With London playing a central role in international filmmaking, the prospect of new tariffs has left many in the British creative sector wary of what comes next.
Speaking at the Cine International Film Festival in Soho this week, actor Tamer Hassan warned the proposal could shake investor confidence. “Raising money for film is hard enough already,” he said. “If this kind of uncertainty creeps in, it could hold back projects before they’ve even started.”
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The UK film industry’s response has centred on both economic concerns and creative partnerships. For years, the UK has offered a highly attractive alternative to Hollywood, combining skilled crews, sound stage capacity, and favourable tax structures. The industry is worth over £1.3 billion to the UK economy and supports nearly 200,000 jobs.
Trump’s comments, delivered earlier this month, claimed the American film sector was in steep decline and needed to bring production back home. While he later suggested he would consult with industry leaders before taking action, many here are treating it as more than political posturing.
Kirsty Bell, CEO of Goldfinch Productions, was quick to challenge the idea that such a move would benefit anyone.
“There’s outstanding talent on both sides of the Atlantic. Punishing international collaborations doesn’t strengthen the industry — it fragments it,”
she said.
Still, not everyone sees it as entirely negative. Ben Charles Edwards, head of Dreamtown Entertainment, noted that if American productions retreat inward, the UK could actually benefit. “We’re incredibly well-placed. If the US puts up barriers, international producers will need somewhere else to go – and London is ready,” he said.
Even so, the industry remains cautious. Trade discussions between President Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer have begun, and the government has called for a “calm and steady” approach. But with jobs and contracts on the line, urgency is rising. Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee, urged ministers to act swiftly. “We can’t afford to be passive,” she said, pointing to the long-term value of US investment in UK production.
Bectu, the union for media and entertainment workers, is concerned the film community can’t withstand another disruption so soon after the pandemic and the recent slowdown in streaming. “Freelancers are only just getting back on their feet,” said Bectu head Philippa Childs. “A tariff like this could throw them back into uncertainty.”
There’s political theatre too. Lib Dem leader Sir Ed Davey told MPs that Trump would “lose” if he tried to pick a fight with James Bond, Bridget Jones, or Paddington Bear. However, behind the humour lies a deeper worry: what starts as rhetoric can become regulation.
While the full picture is still emerging, the UK film industry’s response is a mix of concern, preparation, and, in some corners, quiet optimism. If American productions face new costs overseas, the UK could become a creative safe haven. However, most would prefer stability to a reshuffle.
To see how London is proactively investing in its creative future, you can also read our piece on the Camden Film Quarter plans, which explores the borough’s ambition to build a dedicated film and media district.
For more updates on the UK film industry response to US trade threat and how London’s creative economy is evolving, visit EyeOnLondon. We’d love to hear your views in the comments.
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