China to Cut Hollywood Film Releases in Retaliation to U.S. Tariffs

China has announced plans to scale back the number of Hollywood movies allowed in its cinemas, following the United States’ decision to impose a 145% tariff on Chinese imports. The move marks a new chapter in the intensifying trade conflict between the two global powers.

The National Film Administration of China made the declaration on Thursday, linking the reduction in U.S. film imports to what it described as Washington’s “abuse of tariffs.” The agency said that fewer American movies will be released in Chinese theaters moving forward, citing a decline in public interest due to rising tensions.

“The U.S. government’s misuse of tariff measures will inevitably dampen domestic enthusiasm for American films,” read the official statement. “We will respect market dynamics, listen to our audience, and accordingly reduce the number of U.S. film imports.”

Currently, China allows only 10 Hollywood films to enter its market each year. The country was once a key revenue stream for U.S. film studios, but recent years have seen American productions slip to just 5% of China’s box office revenue, according to industry expert Chris Fenton.

This latest measure could affect the release of major upcoming titles, including Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning, a new Superman film from Warner Bros., and Marvel’s reboot of The Fantastic Four. The long-term impact on Hollywood’s international earnings remains to be seen.