Japan Incentives for Film Productions
The Japanese Incentive Program for International Film & TV Production has a reimbursement scheme worth as much as 50% of production costs. An extra 5% bonus is offered for those projects that hire more than 15% of local Japanese crew, up to about $61,000. Japan’s incentives are mainly aimed at big-budget international projects.
These incentives, however, have major strings attached. Productions must either meet a minimum spend of $3.2 million in Japan or allocate at least $1.1 million if the project is distributed in over ten countries. Although the per-project cap sits at a generous $6.8 million, clarity around Japan’s annual budget cap and application processes can be hazy. Moreover, productions must apply by September of the calendar year for this qualification.
Considering such benefits, by shifting your attention to Thailand, you are likely to recognize that it offers similarly robust tax rebates, and often more reachable ones, for film and television projects.
Thailand Tax Rebate
Thailand has an interesting rebate structure for its Incentive Measures program, offering up to 15% tax rebates for foreign productions with the possibility of substantial additional rebates. Additional rebates of up to 5% are applicable for productions that provide a tourism promotion for Thailand or utilize local talent, and additional shooting in areas as specified within the designated tourism locations brings an additional 3% bonus. Also, an additional Thailand rebate of up to 5% is given for productions with a local spend of over $2.9 million, bringing the total rebate higher.
Thailand also has a very generous rebate cap per project at $4.4 million and welcomes a wide array of formats, from films to TV dramas and documentaries. Unlike Japan’s more limiting regulations, Thailand’s is sleek, with just a minimum in-country spend of $1.5 million. Productions must attain a local permit and engage a Thailand-based coordinator company to qualify.
Thailand Tax Rebates vs. Japan Tax Rebates
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Japan |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Spend | $1.5 million | $3.2 million (or $1.1 million in select cases). Expenditures must be approved, unlike Thailand, where you can spend on anything locally. |
| Application Deadline | Principal Photography must start 120 days after Incentive Application Form is submitted | September of the calendar year |
| Additional Rebates | Up to 16% based on criteria (tourism, local hire, production locations, post-production) | 5% additional for local crew (up to $61,000) |
| Type of Productions | Film, TV drama, documentaries, TV commercials and more | Film and TV series only |
| Application Process | Streamlined process with pre-qualification, talk to a producer today | 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
Productions in Thailand will benefit from a large pool of internationally trained crew members with experience in blockbuster films, international TV shows, and high-end commercials. Many local crew members speak fluent English and bring great value to any production. During the years, Thailand rapidly grew into a big production hub for Southeast Asia, offering easy access to modern equipment and gear to suit numerous different types of production needs.
Navigating the local film industry, securing permits, and finding the right resources can be challenging. That’s where Mbrella Films comes in, with over a decade of experience in the film production business in Thailand, Mbrella offers a full-service company from pre-production to post. Mbrella can assist in location scouting, logistics, securing permits, crew, and equipment hiring, with English-speaking producers to support your every need. This end-to-end service will make sure your shoot in Thailand runs seamless and as smoothly as possible.
Planning to film your next project in Thailand? We can connect you with a local producer to help you qualify for Thailand’s rebate program.
