India Tax Rebates for Film Productions
India offers tax rebates through its Incentives for Shooting of Foreign Films in India program, providing a 30% rebate for international productions. There is an additional 5% bonus on projects that employ at least 15% manpower locally, with a rebate cap up to $244,000. INR 20 million. India also stipulates that a production must shoot at least 51% of the movie on its soil and utilize at least 75% of the local personnel, which guarantees that the domestic film industry will receive a boost, but for foreign film production crews, that can be seen as a disadvantage.
While these incentives make India seem appealing, they also come with limitations. A cap of $244,000 per project means large-budget films may quickly hit this ceiling, limiting the rebate’s value for substantial productions. Additionally, navigating India’s local industry for permits and logistics can be complex, often requiring professional guidance to streamline the process.
If you’re considering shooting in Asia, Thailand offers a dynamic and competitive alternative, packed with flexible incentives and rich cultural backdrops.
Thailand Film Incentives
Thailand’s Incentive Measures exceed the standard tax rebate in their unique benefits. From a base of 15% rebate, with the potential for top-ups that raise it to 20%, Thailand adds on rebates to incentivize various types of investment and activities. Productions can receive up to an additional 5% for promoting Thai tourism, 3% for hiring Thai key personnel, and 3% for filming in designated tourist areas. For that reason, productions that invest more than $2.9 million (THB 100 million) in Thailand can claim the special economic boost rebate of an additional 5%, taking the rebate higher. A great offer for high-budget productions.
These incentives, together with Thailand’s breathtaking and diverse locations, make the country a perfect destination for filmmakers in pursuit of value and an immersive production experience.
Thailand Tax Rebates vs. India Tax Rebates
| Incentive Category | Thailand | India |
|---|---|---|
| Per Project Cap | $4,400,000 | $244,000 |
| Additional Incentives | 5% for tourism promotion, 3% for hiring Thai personnel, 5% Special Boost | None |
| Additional Rebates | Up to 16% based on criteria (tourism, local hire, production locations, post-production) | Additional 5% for hiring 15%+ local manpower |
| Type of Productions | Film, TV drama, documentaries, TV commercials and more | Film, TV drama, other TV, documentary |
| Application Process | Streamlined process with pre-qualification | Application for interim approval at least 4 weeks before production starts |
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
Home to talented production designers and set designers, these specialists can craft sets for any film production, regardless of genre.
Crew & Gear
In Thailand, experienced, English-speaking crew members are easily found. The country has a really strong pool of locally trained professionals who have worked on numerous international productions, from big blockbusters to major TV series. This production hub for Southeast Asia offers the best filming gear and equipment, with easy access to everything your project might require.
This is where Mbrella Films can assist your production from start to finish. Mbrella Films boasts over a decade of experience in full production services-from location scouting and permits to logistical support. Its highly qualified English-speaking producers will guide you through each stage of the process to ensure smooth operations and a successful project. Local production by Mbrella Films takes care of all smooth operations and connects you with an extensive network of professional crew members and the latest equipment to service your production needs as quickly and inexpensively as possible.
Looking to film your next project in Thailand? Let us connect you to a local producer who can help you prequalify for Thailand’s rebate program.
