Hong Kong 🇭🇰

Hong Kong offers a variety of film incentives to support and promote the local film industry, primarily through the Film Development Fund (FDF) managed by the Hong Kong Film Development Council (FDC). Below is an overview of these incentives:

1. Hong Kong Filming Incentives - Financial Support Programs

Financial Support Programs:

The FDF provides various funding schemes, including production financing, co-production funding, and development support for new filmmakers.

2. Film Incentives Breakdown

Film Production Financing Scheme (FPFS):

Objective:

To provide funding for local film productions to enhance the quality and competitiveness of Hong Kong films.

Funding Amount:

Up to 40% of the production budget, capped at HK$6 million per film.

Eligibility:

Open to locally produced feature films with commercial viability.

First Feature Film Initiative (FFFI):

Objective:

To nurture new filmmaking talent by providing funding for first-time directors to produce their debut feature films.

Funding Amount:

Fully finances the production of selected projects.

Eligibility:

Open to new directors who have not previously directed a commercial feature film.

Hong Kong-Asian Film Collaboration Funding Scheme:

Objective:

To subsidize film projects co-produced by Hong Kong filmmakers and their Asian counterparts, promoting cultural exchange and market expansion.

Funding Amount:

Up to 30% of the production budget, capped at HK$9 million per film.

Eligibility:

Co-productions between Hong Kong and Asian countries with significant Hong Kong involvement.

Film Financing Scheme for Mainland Market:

Objective:

To support Hong Kong film companies and Mainland cultural enterprises in producing films for the Mainland market.

Funding Amount:

HK$10 million per film, provided the film is theatrically released in Mainland China.

Eligibility:

Co-productions between Hong Kong and Mainland China with a production budget between HK$25 million and HK$150 million.

3. Filming Incentives Terms and Conditions

General Requirements:

• Projects must be feature films intended for commercial release.
• Applicants should be registered companies in Hong Kong with a proven track record in film production.
• Projects should contribute to the development of the Hong Kong film industry and promote local culture.

Specific Conditions:

FPFS:

Applicants must secure at least 50% of the production budget from other sources.

FFFI:

Directors must be first-time feature filmmakers, and projects should demonstrate creativity and originality.

Co-Production Schemes:

Projects must involve significant collaboration between Hong Kong and partner countries, with clear cultural and economic benefits.

4. Governing Body for the Incentives

Hong Kong Film Development Council (FDC):

• The FDC oversees the administration of the Film Development Fund and its various funding schemes.
• It formulates strategies and measures to support the development of the local film industry.

5. Filming Incentive Application Process

1. Preparation:

• Develop a comprehensive project proposal, including a detailed script, budget, and production plan.
• Secure necessary financing and partnerships to meet eligibility criteria.

2. Application Submission:

• Submit the application form along with required documents to the FDC within the specified application periods.

3. Evaluation:

• The FDC assesses applications based on criteria such as creativity, feasibility, market potential, and contribution to the local film industry.

4. Approval and Agreement:

• Successful applicants enter into a funding agreement with the FDC, outlining the terms and conditions of the funding.

5. Production and Monitoring:

• Proceed with production as per the approved plan, with regular progress reports submitted to the FDC.

6. Completion and Disbursement:

• Upon completion, submit final reports and audited accounts.
• The FDC disburses the remaining funds based on compliance with the agreement terms.

For detailed guidelines and application forms, applicants should consult the official website of the Hong Kong Film Development Council or contact them directly for assistance.