France Tax Rebate for International Production (TRIP) for Film Productions
France’s TRIP-International Production Tax Rebate-allows international filmmakers to receive 30% off qualified expenses, with the possibility of a 40% rebate on projects involving substantial visual effects. With a per-project cap at $33 million (€30 million), TRIP is a cornerstone for productions that aim to shoot in and take advantage of France’s facilities and locations. However, the ins and outs of qualifying for local incentives-from cultural test criteria to the use of French production companies-can be quite daunting.
But while the French incentives sound impressive on paper, the restrictions often make it complicated for international productions. These include a $276,000 (€250,000) minimum spend requirement, a cultural test, and the ineligibility of projects already benefitting from another form of French state financial support.
Now, let’s consider how the tax rebate program in Thailand provides a smoother and more lucrative route to filmmakers.
Thailand Film Tax Rebate
Thailand’s Incentive Measures provide a rebate from the get-go at 15%, with added bonuses that can raise the overall rebate to 30%. Productions promoting Thai tourism, soft power, or a positive portrayal of Thailand; providing employment to key Thai personnel; utilizing Department of Tourism Designated Provinces; or conducting post-production in Thailand will receive extra benefits. With no per-project cap, Thailand’s scheme is designed to tempt both blockbuster and mid-sized productions.
Filming in Thailand has been going smoothly due to solid infrastructure, local crew experience, and location diversity, from bustling cities down to tranquil beaches. There is a considerably lower production cost in Thailand compared to France, thus making filmmaking more practical for those with a tight budget.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. France Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | France |
|---|---|---|
| Application Process | Simple, pre-shoot application | Complex, cultural test required |
| Additional Rebates | Up to 30% with add-ons for ANY type of project | Up to 30% with add-ons ONLY for VFX-intensive projects |
| Cost Efficiency | High | Competitive and affordable |
| Type of Production | Film, TV drama, other TV, documentary, other | Film, TV drama, other TV, other |
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 offers a big pool of internationally trained crew members, from blockbuster experiences to international TV series and high-end commercials. The local crews speak good English, hence ensuring smooth communication, and their skill sets will definitely add immense value to the quality of the project.
Being the leading production hub in Southeast Asia, Thailand has state-of-the-art gear and equipment. This means that filmmakers can literally benefit from everything needed without any further logistic complications. Mbrella Films will ease this process by being among the most trustful names in the Thai production industry. With more than a decade of experience, Mbrella Films offers full-scale production services:
- Location Scouting and Logistics: Discover Thailand’s stunning landscapes with Mbrella’s expert scouting team.
- Crew and Equipment Hire: Access a pool of professional crew members and cutting-edge equipment at competitive rates.
- English-speaking Producers: Work seamlessly with experienced producers who guide you through every step of the production process.
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.
