Trump Says James Bond Films Exempt from Tariffs Amid UK-US Trade Talks

Donald Trump has assured that the James Bond franchise has “nothing to worry about” in relation to new US tariffs, despite his broader plans to penalize foreign-shot films. Speaking during a press conference on May 8 about a new trade agreement with the UK that aims to reduce tariffs on British goods, Trump discussed his intention to impose 100% tariffs on films produced outside the United States.

Earlier this week, Trump caused a stir by announcing the forthcoming tariffs via social media, citing the decline of the American film industry. He claimed that foreign governments are offering incentives to attract US filmmakers and studios, which he framed as a national security concern. “The Movie Industry in America is DYING a very fast death,” he posted. “Hollywood... is being devastated… This is a concerted effort by other Nations and, therefore, a National Security threat. It is… messaging and propaganda!”

However, during the press event, Trump clarified that the iconic 007 franchise would be excluded from these measures. He emphasized his personal connection to the late actor Sean Connery, recalling how Connery supported Trump’s efforts to build golf courses in Aberdeen, Scotland. Trump even mimicked Connery’s accent while sharing the anecdote: “Sean Connery was a friend of mine… He said, ‘Let the bloody bloke build his golf courses.’ He was a great guy.”

While Trump remained vague on how exactly the proposed tariffs would function—especially for films partially produced overseas—he reiterated the need to revive domestic filmmaking by discouraging international production. Nevertheless, his remarks about Bond served as an exception to his aggressive policy stance, providing reassurance to fans and producers of the franchise.

This comes as the James Bond series is preparing for a new chapter. Producers Amy Pascal and David Heyman are currently developing the next installment. At CinemaCon in April, Amazon MGM executives Courtenay Valenti and Sue Kroll praised the producers as “filmmaking legends” and expressed excitement for the upcoming reboot.

Valenti noted, “We are committed to honoring the legacy of this iconic character, while bringing a fresh, exhilarating new chapter to audiences around the world alongside Amy and David.” She added that the producers are already in London working on the project.

Meanwhile, the casting process for the next Bond actor—who now appears to be safe from US trade penalties—is still underway.