TORONTO (May 5, 2025) – The Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) is calling on the Government of Canada to take a firm stand in defense of our cultural industries, as Washington launches yet another attack on Canadian workers — this time through a proposed 100% tariff on foreign-produced films that would directly threaten Canada’s media production sector.

Eleanor Noble, ACTRA National President, is calling on the Government of Canada to stand firm in defending our cultural industries: “This is more than a trade dispute — it’s an attack on the livelihoods of Canadian performers and creators.”

Canada’s film, television, and digital media sector contributed over $11 billion to the national GDP in 2023–24 and continues to drive innovation, global recognition, and job creation. The imposition of cultural tariffs or rollbacks would not only destabilize decades of Canada–U.S. industry collaboration but also threaten the jobs of thousands of Canadians across the country.

“Now is the time to invest in a strong, truly domestic media production industry that can withstand external threats and thrive on the global stage,” continues Noble. “ACTRA urges Prime Minister Carney and Canada’s trade team to take a Team Canada approach — one that protects our performers, strengthens our cultural infrastructure, and ensures Canadian stories are seen here at home and around the world.”

About ACTRA:

Alliance of Canadian Cinema, Television and Radio Artists (ACTRA) is the national union of professional performers working in recorded media in Canada. ACTRA represents the interests of over 30,000 members across the country – the foundation of Canada’s highly acclaimed professional performing community.

Media Contact: Carol Taverner, ACTRA National Public Relations Officer, Email: ctaverner@actra.ca