President Donald Trump dismissed China’s latest retaliation in the ongoing tariff battle — a reduction in the number of American films allowed in the country — with humor and confidence. During a Cabinet meeting Thursday, Trump brushed off concerns that Beijing is now targeting cultural exports, particularly Hollywood.
Asked by a reporter for his reaction to China slashing U.S. film imports, Trump smiled and quipped, “I think I’ve heard of worse things,” drawing laughter from top officials seated around him. The comment signaled that the administration is unbothered by China’s latest move in the escalating trade conflict.
The restriction on American movies comes as the U.S. enforces a 125 percent reciprocal tariff on Chinese goods following Beijing’s own increase to 84 percent earlier this week. Despite the economic standoff, Trump struck a composed tone, saying he hopes for a fair trade resolution.
“We would love to be able to work a deal,” Trump said. “They’ve really taken advantage of our country for a long period of time… How people stood for it, sitting in my position, is not even believable.” He criticized past presidents for allowing the imbalance, calling the current trade reset necessary and overdue.
Trump also emphasized his longstanding relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stating, “I have great respect for President Xi… I think that we’ll end up working out something that’s very good for both countries.” His comments reinforced a dual strategy of strength and diplomacy in dealing with China.
China’s decision to limit Hollywood content appears to target an industry closely associated with progressive and globalist agendas, many of which conflict with the administration’s America First values. Trump’s dismissal of the move suggests the White House is more focused on economic leverage and manufacturing than on cultural exports.
The back-and-forth tariff measures since “Liberation Day” underscore the administration’s intent to bring U.S.-China trade to more equitable terms. Trump’s remarks made clear that American entertainment’s presence in China is not a bargaining chip that concerns the White House.
