Tariffs, Ads, and Opportunity: What the Trump Effect Means for SA’s Film Scene (Hint: We’re Ready!) 🇿🇦
Let’s face it: the world is wild, unpredictable, and full of plot twists. And we love a good plot twist — especially the kind where South Africa ends up in the spotlight.
Two global headlines made waves this month:
1. Donald Trump announced plans for a 100% tariff on all films made outside the USA (yes, that includes commercials too).
2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. wants to ban all pharmaceutical advertising in the United States.
Now before anyone panics or breaks out the popcorn for a political drama, let’s break this down KingClip-style — light-hearted, fact-forward, and positively South African.
The Trump Tariff: What’s the Drama?
Trump’s proposed 100% tariff on films produced outside the US is raising eyebrows. While not clearly defined, many in the industry expect it to extend to commercials, which are considered “film” under many regulations.
What this means for the U.S. long-form industry:
Higher costs to shoot internationally.
More red tape and complexity.
Potential slowdown in cross-border projects.
But here’s the twist...
South African commercials and short-form content still have an edge.
Most service work in Cape Town isn’t meant for theatrical release — it’s agile, affordable, and nimble. Even if long-form work slows down, commercials, music videos, and branded content can thrive — especially when the industry needs cost-effective solutions with world-class quality.
The Kennedy Clause: No More Pharma Ads?
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is proposing a ban on pharmaceutical advertising in the U.S. That’s significant because pharma ads make up a big chunk of American commercial work — some of which has historically been serviced right here in Cape Town during peak season.
But hold your breath (and vitamins)...
The demand for health and wellness content isn’t going anywhere. In fact, as big pharma budgets shift, natural health, lifestyle brands, fitness, and clean beauty ads are expected to fill the gap. That means new creative opportunities — and South Africa, with its stunning backdrops and talented crews, remains the perfect place to make it all happen.
Why South Africa Still Steals the Scene
Best crews
Favourable exchange rates
World-class locations
Weather that listens
And talent that brings the magic (yes, that’s YOU!)
How KingClip Is Future-Proofing the Industry
At KingClip, we keep our ear to the ground and our shades on. We’re already:
• Supporting clients in diversifying their content types
• Working with agencies focused on non-US markets
• Building rosters of talent who are camera-ready, versatile, and globally appealing The world may change its tune — but we’ll be ready to keep dancing to the beat.
So whether it’s pharma, fashion, or fire dancers selling sandals — one thing’s for sure the cameras in Cape Town will keep rolling.
Casting now. Shooting soon. Always creating.
