The ancient Croatian town of Dubrovnik, famous for its stunning fortresses and cobbled streets, attracts numerous tourists eager to visit the iconic locations from the Game of Thrones television series and the Star Wars had been threatened.
However, recent comments by President Donald Trump imposing a 100% tariff on all movies produced outside the United States have sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry and among locals in Dubrovnik. Many fear that directors may no longer consider filming in this picturesque town due to the proposed tariffs.
Croatian film producer, Igor Aleksandar Nola expressed his concerns, stating that the planned tariffs have already caused significant disruptions. Budgets have been impacted by the global economic uncertainty, and part of the financing from banks and investment funds for audio-visual arts has been put on hold. “There have been huge disruptions because of the tariffs that Trump plans to introduce,” Nola said, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding film financing.
Central European countries and the Balkans have long been favored by Hollywood for their breathtaking scenery, diverse architectural styles, and cost-effective filming options. When a movie or series becomes a hit, these locations often experience a surge in popularity among visitors. Dubrovnik is a prime example, having become a hotspot for Game of Thrones fans worldwide.
“The film and Game of Thrones have changed Dubrovnik for sure,” said Ivan Vukovic, a local tourist guide. Approximately 1,000 tourists join Game of Thrones tours every day, and the town has witnessed an economic boom with the opening of new souvenir shops and job creation for local guides and production assistants. “All of this created a big economic boom,” Vukovic added, emphasizing the positive impact of film tourism.
The lack of clarity on the timing and application of the tariffs has left film industry executives uncertain about how they will be affected. Despite the initial shock, participants at the Cannes Film Festival adopted a cautious yet business-as-usual approach following Trump’s tariff announcement.
Mate Frankovic, the mayor of Dubrovnik, remains optimistic, believing that the crisis will be short-lived and won’t significantly impact film productions or tourism in the city. With around 1.4 million tourists visiting annually, Frankovic said, “I honestly cannot imagine a single serious U.S. film and large production without including a major European city,” expressing confidence in Dubrovnik’s enduring appeal to filmmakers.
Read more: Trump announced 100% tariff on foreign-made movies
