Malaysia Tax Rebates for Film Productions
Malaysia’s Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI) offers competitive tax rebates for filmmakers looking to work within the country. The core FIMI tax rebate value is set at 30% of the qualifying expenditures with an additional uplift of 5% for those projects meeting cultural criteria, however there is no clear budget cap provided. These incentives make Malaysia a lucrative option for productions that intend to achieve optimal costs. Films, TV dramas, and documentaries are all eligible productions; both domestic and foreign productions can submit their entries.
While there are some financial benefits available with these incentives, foreign producers must be very careful with the application process. For example, producers are required to submit a provisional certificate application two months before filming begins; this means preparation and timing are major components of the entire process. Although Malaysia provides financial incentives for films, Thailand’s film production benefits can be quite lucrative regarding both quality and profit return.
Thailand Tax Rebate
Thailand offers a transparent and attractive system of rebates for filming. There is a guaranteed 15% rebate for producers that, under favorable conditions, could go as high as 20%, unlike Malaysia where the expenditure has to be looked at before any deal can be struck. Other benefits include rebates for promoting tourism, hiring Thai professionals, and shooting in designated scenic locations that offer foreign productions a way to substantially improve their return on investment. The incentives for Thailand have fewer limitations, thus making it easier for producers to qualify for a tax rebate without too many intricate pre-submission requirements. Additionally, Mbrella Films can offer a call with an in-house producer for production crews to get pre-approved and confirmed on their qualification status.
Unlike Malaysia, Thailand is a far more attractive option, considering its high rebate rate, ease of access, and great potential for added value. This can go up to an additional 5% for projects that can promote tourism and another 3% for hiring Thai talent, enabling productions to take advantage of the abundant resources and culture which Thailand has to offer.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. Malaysia Tax Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Malaysia |
|---|---|---|
| Rebate Value | 15% base, no questions asked (with up to 20% in additional bonuses) | 30% for approved expenditures |
| Additional Incentives | 5% for tourism promotion, 3% for hiring Thai personnel, 5% Special Boost | 5% uplift based on cultural test criteria |
| Per Project Cap | $4.4 million+ | Lacks Clarity on Per Project Cap |
| Minimum Spend | Spend less than a million dollars! |
For foreign projects: $1.1 million
For the post‐production: A minimum spend of $225,000 |
| Production Types | Film, TV drama, documentaries, TV commercials and more | Film, TV drama, other TV, documentary |
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
Thailand boasts an internationally-trained, world-class crew base of professionals experienced in blockbuster productions, international TV series, and high-end commercials. With English being a common language spoken among locals, Thailand’s workforce assuredly provides seamless service, skill, and support. Since Thailand is well along the way to becoming a hub for production within Southeast Asia, film crews can have access to state-of-the-art equipment and gear needed for a high-quality project
Mbrella Films can lead you through Thailand’s robust production landscape with a full suite of support services, making sure your experience is stress-free. With over a decade of expertise, Mbrella Films guides international filmmakers through location scouting, securing permits, and managing crew and equipment.
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.
