The Union of Cinematographic and Audiovisual Industry Professionals (UPICA) is organizing a national forum in December to rethink the economic model of Tunisia's film sector. The event aims to address the main obstacles to the industry's development, including financing, infrastructure, and the country's attractiveness for foreign shoots. This initiative seeks to bring together industry stakeholders to discuss and find solutions to these challenges. The forum will feature three panels, each focusing on a specific aspect of the industry's development.
The first panel, "Facilitating Access to Financing," will examine the difficulties producers face in securing funds for their projects. Participants will discuss alternative financing mechanisms and a banking guarantee system to reassure credit institutions. The governance and management of the investment encouragement fund for the cinematographic and audiovisual sector will also be on the agenda. Furthermore, the panel will look into funds and co-production agreements with third countries to increase international cooperation for Tunisian productions.
The second panel, "Encouraging Infrastructure Investments," will focus on equipping the industry. It will debate a strategy to attract investments in cinematographic infrastructure and a national plan to rehabilitate cinemas, many of which have closed or deteriorated over the years. The development of the industry in regions, through the creation of regional hubs and economic free zones, will also be discussed. The goal is to decentralize the industry's activities and make cinema a driver of development in regions.
The third panel, "Territorial Attractiveness and Foreign Shoots," aims to make Tunisia a competitive filming destination. It plans to establish a Tunisia Film Commission to promote the country to international producers and a one-stop shop to simplify obtaining filming permits. The panel will also explore fiscal privileges and customs facilities to attract foreign productions. Additionally, it will study the encouragement of film festivals and events, taking into account regional specificities, to boost local economies.
The national forum is an opportunity for the film industry to address its challenges and explore new opportunities. By bringing together industry professionals, the event aims to create a platform for discussion and collaboration. The UPICA initiative seeks to promote the development of Tunisia's film sector and make it more competitive internationally. This event is expected to have a positive impact on the industry and the country's economy.
The Tunisian film industry has faced several challenges in recent years, including a decline in film production and a lack of infrastructure. The national forum aims to address these issues and find solutions to promote the industry's growth. The event will provide a platform for industry stakeholders to share their experiences and expertise, and to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the sector.
The national forum on the economic transformation of the film sector is a significant initiative for Tunisia's film industry. It demonstrates the industry's commitment to addressing its challenges and promoting its development. The event's outcomes are expected to have a positive impact on the industry and contribute to the country's economic growth.
Key points
- The national forum will focus on financing, infrastructure, and attractiveness for foreign shoots.
- The event aims to make Tunisia a competitive filming destination.
- The forum seeks to promote the development of Tunisia's film sector and make it more competitive internationally.
