Australia’s Ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, has strongly criticised President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on foreign films. Speaking at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Los Angeles, Rudd opposed the potential “tax on Bluey,” referencing the popular Australian children’s TV show. The proposal to tax overseas films was put forward by Trump earlier this week, with Rudd arguing against it during a panel discussion with prominent business leaders and entertainment figures.
Kevin Rudd Defends ‘Bluey’ as Trump Proposes Film Tariffs
Rudd Calls for Open Cultural Exchange
Rudd stressed the importance of movies in fostering global understanding and cultural exchange. He stated, “What happens if we all lock down our countries with competitive, punitive arrangements against each other’s movies? Movies are the way in which we kind of understand each other more.” He added, “I don’t think we want to see a tax on Bluey,” indicating his concern over the impact of such tariffs on global culture and Australian programming. Rudd’s comments came in response to Trump’s recent announcement of a potential 100 per cent tariff on all movies produced overseas.
Trump’s Tariff Proposal Raises Concerns
The US president’s plan to impose a 100 per cent tariff on foreign films aims to protect the domestic film and TV industry. Trump has framed the proposal as necessary to counter what he calls a “concerted effort” by other nations to draw film production abroad. In his statement, Trump indicated that tax incentives in other countries have prompted studios to shift production overseas. He suggested these incentives pose a “National Security threat” to the US.
The announcement came as a surprise to many in the global entertainment industry, with filmmakers and moviegoers alike unsure of how such a tariff would be implemented. Since films are intellectual property, not physical goods, the legal and logistical complexities of enforcing such a tariff are unclear.
Global Ambassadors Speak Out Against Tariffs
Rudd was not alone in expressing concerns about the proposed tariffs. UK Ambassador Peter Mandelson, who also participated in the panel, voiced similar objections. He stated that his country was “not very keen on tariffs on cars” or films. Mandelson added, “Among the best of [films] are now made in Britain,” highlighting the global nature of film production and the potential damage that tariffs could inflict.
Luxembourg’s Ambassador Nicole Bintner also emphasised the importance of “cultural diplomacy” in her remarks. She shared her experience working with African filmmakers and organising village screenings in the Sahel region. She argued that films serve as a powerful tool for bridging cultural divides and fostering global understanding. Bintner’s comments underscored the broader implications of the tariffs beyond the entertainment industry.
Rudd Critiques Previous US Tariffs on Australian Territory
Rudd also took aim at the US’s recent 10 per cent tariff on Australian territory. He ridiculed the tariff placed on the Heard and McDonald Islands, which are located off the coast of Antarctica. The tariff, imposed last month, was an attempt by the US to protect its economic interests in the region. Rudd sarcastically referred to the penguins on the islands, saying, “They’re producing a sequel, it’s called Unhappy Feet. There’ll be a march of penguins on Washington.” His remarks lightened the mood, but they highlighted the absurdity of such tariffs in his view.
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The Role of Movies in Global Diplomacy
At the Milken Institute Global Conference, Rudd and other ambassadors discussed the role of movies in diplomacy and international relations. Rudd drew attention to the 2000 Australian film “The Dish,” which tells the story of how Australia’s Parkes Observatory helped broadcast the historic Apollo 11 Moon landing. He highlighted that the Parkes Observatory played a crucial role in delivering Neil Armstrong’s famous first steps on the Moon to the world. “That is the platform which delivered the world the pictures of Neil Armstrong landing,” Rudd said.
Rudd’s mention of “The Dish” served to emphasise the broader role that countries, including Australia, play in contributing to global cultural history through films. For Rudd, the suggestion of a tariff on foreign films contradicted the role of movies as a bridge for international dialogue.
The Bigger Picture: Cultural Diplomacy
As global ambassadors discussed the importance of trump movies in shaping cultural diplomacy, Rudd’s comments underscored the potential consequences of the proposed tariffs. For many, films represent more than just entertainment. They are vehicles for understanding, cultural exchange and the sharing of stories that transcend borders. By imposing tariffs on foreign films, countries risk limiting the scope of these cultural exchanges, potentially harming diplomatic relations.
Rudd’s Stand on Global Trade and Culture
Rudd’s comments at the Milken Institute highlighted his firm stance on maintaining open cultural exchange. His criticism of the proposed movie tariffs and the US’s broader trade policies reflect his broader vision for global cooperation. As the former Prime Minister of Australia, Rudd has always advocated for international collaboration and the free flow of cultural and economic goods.
His remarks at the Milken Institute underscored the trump complex intersection of trade, culture and diplomacy. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of globalisation, Rudd’s call for open cultural exchange offers a timely reminder of the importance of shared global experiences.
