Singapore Cash Rebate for Film Productions
The Made-with-Singapore cash rebate program is devised to incentivize film production within the country. It includes a 40% rebate on local spending that is supposed to make Singapore a competitive location to shoot. Of course, there are also downsides to the rebate structure, most of which involve having to rely heavily on local resources and staff, limiting foreign crews and varied production needs. The Made-with-Singapore program has some vague definitions in a number of areas regarding elements such as annual budget caps, the number of projects, and deadlines-which create a potential cause for alarm for filmmakers on very tight timelines.
While the cash rebate program of Singapore allows for considerable returns, the viability as far as international productions are concerned may be affected by certain conditions. In direct comparison, Thailand has certain advantages and is therefore an increasingly attractive option to filmmakers who have various needs for the crew and a higher flexibility requirement.
Thailand Tax Rebate
Thailand’s Incentive Measures program not only offers an upfront 15% rebate but provides additional incentives for those who promote tourism, hire key Thai personnel, film in tourism-designated areas, or invest in post-production within Thailand. With the potential to reach a total rebate of 20%, Thailand ensures substantial benefits for film productions of all sizes. Furthermore, with a per-project cap of $4.4 million and clear guidelines, Thailand’s program is structured with the filmmaker’s needs in mind, offering a straightforward process for qualifying expenditures and the flexibility to bring in international crew.
These competitive incentives, blended with breathtaking landscapes, varied cultural backdrops, and fully equipped modern production facilities in Thailand, create an ideal setting for a variety of project types.
Thailand’s Tax Rebate vs. Singapore’s Cash Rebate
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Singapore |
|---|---|---|
| Rebate Value | 15% no questions asked, just shoot and you qualify (on top up to 20% with additional bonuses) | 40% for approved budgets and expenditures only |
| Additional Incentives | 5% for tourism promotion, 3% for hiring Thai personnel, 5% Special Boost | None |
| Minimum Spend and Limitations |
No minimum, 15% for productions that take place in Thailand
- Hire local crew to get even more than 15% - Do post-production in Thailand, to get more on top rebates off of the base rebate. |
To qualify for this scheme, the expenses must be mostly focused on local resources that involves: - Hiring local staff and other expenditures - Post-production costs, rental of local facilities, and gear also count. |
| Production Types | Film, TV drama, documentaries, TV commercials and more | Lacks clarity on Production Types |
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 has an excellent infrastructure of film production, supported by a highly-skilled labor force that is internationally trained and experienced in working on blockbuster films, international television series, and high-end commercials. The production teams have expert, English-speaking professionals to ensure there is good communication throughout the entire production process.
As a leader in Southeast Asia’s film industry, Thailand has also become a hub for film production in Southeast Asia, leading to access to high-quality gear and equipment. Mbrella Films supports well-seasoned professionals in every aspect of the production process, from location scouting and logistics to crew and equipment rental. Guided by Mbrella, productions benefit from skilled English-speaking producers who navigate local requirements and make sure permits and arrangements run seamlessly from start to finish.
