Belgium Tax Shelter for Film Production
Tax Shelter in Belgium is a federal incentive for investment in film, TV drama, and documentary. Producers can access up to 42% of their Belgian expenses against qualifying expenditures in Belgium or the European Economic Area. Its non-selective nature, however, makes it mainly accessible for European works or qualifying co-productions. Besides, it is a complex process to work through, considering the number of conditions, such as approval by Belgium’s finance minister for investors and intermediaries. The maximum amount that can be sheltered in tax per project is $8 million (€7.25 million).
While Belgium’s Tax Shelter program gives a financial boost, the lack of additional incentives, complex application requirements, and intermediaries involved might raise some difficulties. Moreover, the lack of a minimum expenditure threshold could mean less clarity on funding certainty for the productions.
On the other hand, Thailand’s tax rebate program offers a more straightforward, competitive structure with additional benefits to attract a wide range of international productions.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand’s Incentive Measures program offers a compelling tax rebate system for foreign productions, providing a base rebate of 15%. Productions that meet specific criteria can unlock additional bonuses up to 20% and more such as:
- 5% for promoting Thai tourism and culture.
- 3% for employing key Thai personnel.
- 3% for physical production in tourism-designated locations.
- 2% if 15% of eligible expenses are allocated to post-production in Thailand.
- 5% Special Economic Boost for projects spending over $2.9 million (THB 100 million).
This fund has a per-project cap of $4.4 million (THB 150 million), and an application needs to be filed before the camera starts rolling. This incentive program would consider films, TV dramas, documentaries, and other formats, as long as the project meets minimum expenditure criteria in Thailand and engages the services of a Thai coordinator. It’s clearly outlined in Thailand, and with the added bonus for higher rebates, Thailand is way more inclusive than Belgium in all respects and also budgetarily friendly.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Belgium Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Belgium |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Application | Clear criteria, straightforward application process | Requires approval of intermediaries and investors |
| Restrictions | Provide opportunities to local coordinators | Complex compliance; European works/co-productions |
| Additional Bonuses | Up to 13% for tourism, local hires, post-production, and key locations | None |
| Eligible Productions | Film, TV, other TV, documentary, post-production | Film, TV drama, other TV, documentary, other |
Choose Thailand for your next project and enjoy a hassle-free experience with maximum rebates, talented crews, and comprehensive support. For more details on filming in Thailand, download our FREE TAX & LOCATIONS GUIDE today!
Thailand Filming Locations
Pine Forest
Pine forests in the northern region of Thailand blanket the mountains and hills, setting up a perfect backdrop and ambiance for any film production.
Western Houses
Unknown to many, western houses are located outside of Bangkok, ideal for filming. These houses are beautifully built, structurally sound, and mimic homes built in the West.
Studios
Bangkok is home to a multitude of studios, equipped with the latest equipment, sound systems, lights, and everything a production team needs. Filmmakers can easily find and rent a studio in Bangkok without traveling far to find one.
City
Bangkok’s bustling metropolis with neon-dotted cityscape sets the tone for any film production in the heart of the city. Meandering through the heart is the famed Chao Phraya River, perfect for capturing heartfelt and romantic scenes along the river boasting a rich backdrop showcasing Thailand’s icon temples and pagodas.
Islands
With over a thousand islands dotting Thailand’s rolling coastline and the Andaman Sea, each island has charm, mystery, and beauty. Towering, jagged cliffs remain untouched by human hands and serve as a home to the wild animals hiding within the rock crevasses or underwater schisms.
Beaches
Thailand’s sun-kissed beaches are second to none. Layered with soft, white, silky sand, crystal clear waters, and lush terrain, Thailand’s southern beaches serve as the ideal filming location for dramas, romantic comedies, and action and adventure films.
Mountains
North Thailand is home to impressive, lush mountain ranges. During winter months, Doi Inthanon and Doi Suthep are cloaked in a sea of fog and the grass is blanketed by dewdrops every morning.
Set Buildings
Crew & Gear
Thailand’s production industry maintains a very strong ecosystem of crew members who are both experienced and internationally trained in their respective fields. These people bring years of expertise from blockbusters, international TV series, and high-end commercials. Besides, their proficiency in English guarantees smooth communication throughout the production process.
As far as equipment goes, Thailand’s position as a production hub guarantees access to the latest gear and technologies. Whether your project requires specialized tools or standard filming equipment, the availability and affordability in Thailand make it a headache-free experience.
Mbrella Films offers full-scale production support, making the entire process quite seamless for foreign filmmakers. From location scouting in the most picturesque settings of Thailand to permits and logistics, Mbrella Films covers everything with ease. The company will also provide access to very experienced English-speaking producers and a network of highly qualified local crew at competitive rates. With Mbrella Films for partnership, your project in Thailand will be smoothly operated, leaving you to creativity and execution.
Ready to make the most of your next production? Let us connect you to a local producer who can help you prequalify for Thailand’s rebate program.
