Tax Rebates in the Philippines for Film Productions
The Philippines offers the Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP), which provides a 20% tax rebate for eligible productions. The incentive is capped on a budget of $179,500 per year. FLIP grants incentives to those projects that have minimum in-country expenditure of at least $143,600 on approved expenses. The aim is to encourage more international shoots through a competitive rebate scheme for qualifying films, TV dramas, and documentaries, among other productions. FLIP encourages film production in the Philippines and opens business opportunities while showcasing the different locations of the country.
Although FLIP provides a rebate, its tight annual cap tends to limit options for larger projects that need flexibility in the production location. Productions with a wider budget and scale may find limitations in the Philippines, contrasting with Thailand’s more complete incentive system and smooth processes.
Thailand Tax Rebate
Thailand has a very clearly defined tax rebate system, starting with a base of 15% rebate on production costs, which can be added to with bonuses of up to 5% depending on certain achievements reached. Here are ways the productions can gain these additional rebates:
- 5% for projects that promote tourism and present a positive view of Thailand.
- 3% for hiring essential Thai personnel.
- 2% for dedicating 15% of the production budget to post-production in Thailand.
This straightforward rebate structure provides clarity and flexibility for filmmakers to budget effectively. With a maximum rebate of $4.4 million per project, this is quite a substantial incentive towards cost efficiency for large productions. Besides that, Thailand has a pretty streamlined qualification process in terms of clearly stated deadlines and specific local spending requirements; hence, it is an attractive and reliable option for international filmmakers desiring to gain maximum production value.
Thailand Tax Rebate vs. The Philippines Film Location Incentive Program (FLIP)
| Incentive Category | Thailand | The Philppines |
|---|---|---|
| Rebate Value | 15% base for just shooting in Thailand (with up to 20% in additional bonuses) | 20% if approved |
| Additional Incentives | 5% for tourism promotion, 3% for hiring Thai personnel, 5% Special Boost | None |
| Minimum Spend | Lower minimum, 15% for productions that take place in Thailand | Minimum spend required of $143,600 for consideration |
| 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 has a vast network of highly proficient crew members who have experience in blockbuster films, international TV series, and high-end commercials. The crews are seasoned, English-speaking, and skilled, which allows easy communication and collaboration with foreign productions.
Mbrella Films has established itself as a prominent film production service company in Thailand, having worked on international projects for more than a decade. From pre-production to post-production, Mbrella Films makes filming easier by taking care of all the details that need to be looked at during shoots-from location scouting down to logistics, crew, and equipment rentals.
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.
