Taiwan Rebate for Film Productions
In Taiwan, the government offers a 30% tax rebate on qualified production expenses. Funding covers 45% for personnel costs, 35% for pre- and post-production expenses, and 20% for insurance and transportation, as well as lodging. In Taiwan, the rebate cap placed by the government is only $984,000 for films and $656,000 for TV dramas. The scheme is limited to productions with internationally renowned directors, or those whose foreign production company has spent at least $984,000.
While the incentives offered by Taiwan may be tempting at first sight, all these limitations and eligibility criteria can serve as a barrier to fully reaping this rebate. What if there is something better, much more flexible, with more than 4 times the cap per project, just a few hours of travel away? That’s exactly what Thailand has to offer.
Thailand Tax Rebate
Thailand offers a far more robust tax rebate structure with an easy application process. Anchored by an underlying 20% rebate for qualified production expenses, which can be pre-approved by just talking to one of our producers. Filmmakers can further boost this by as much as an additional 5%, based on factors such as promoting tourism, employing key Thai personnel, or even spending in specific tourism-designated areas. For those productions whose local expenditures exceed $2.9 million, there is an extra 5% rebate. Unlike Taiwan, whose per-project cap is much higher and goes up as high as $4.4 million US, it pays better to have both small and large-scale projects go into production in Thailand.
The Thailand alternative offers competitive incentives but, above all, constitutes the ideal shooting destination for its picturesque location, competent local crew members, and a very active film industry.
Thailand vs. Taiwan Tax Rebate Quick Rundown
| Incentive Category | Thailand | Taiwan |
|---|---|---|
| Rebate Value | 15% (with up to 33% in additional bonuses) | 30% |
| Additional Incentives | 5% for tourism promotion, 3% for hiring Thai personnel, 5% Special Boost and more! | None |
| Per Project Cap | $4.4 million+ | $984,000 (film), $656,000 (TV drama) |
| Minimum Spend | $1.5 million | $984,000 (film), $2 million (TV drama) |
| Production Types | Film, TV drama, documentaries, TV commercials and more | Film and TV drama |
It’s evident that Thailand offers more when it comes to rebates with fewer restrictions. If your production is considering filming in Asia, Thailand should be at the top of the list for its diverse incentives, experienced crews, and variety of production types, offering a higher chance of maximizing your cash rebate. Talk to a producer today to learn how you can pre-qualify for your cash rebate.
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 offers highly talented, English-speaking crews with years of experience in blockbusters, international TV series, and TV commercials. Whether large or small, productions run smoothly, on time, and on budget thanks to the local talent pool. As Southeast Asia’s top production hub, Thailand provides hassle-free access to high-end film gears, from high-end cameras, lights, and sound stages, without needing to source internationally.
With over a decade of international production support, Mbrella Films handles everything from location scouting and logistics to crew and equipment hire. The company’s experienced, English-speaking producers ensure smooth operations from pre-production to post, while their local knowledge streamlines the permit process. Mbrella Films provides the best resources and support for a successful production in Thailand, from start to finish.
