Uzbekistan Unveils Tax Exemptions for Foreign Filmmakers
Foreign production companies choosing to shoot films in Uzbekistan are set to be exempt from taxes under a wave of progressive industry reforms.
Speaking at a recent gathering with arts and culture representatives, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced that a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s cinematic management and financing systems will officially come into effect from September 1.
Restructuring film management
The upcoming changes will introduce a significant shift in how the domestic film industry is governed. Several established administrative bodies will be entirely abolished, namely the Republican Cinematographic Commission alongside the National and Artistic Councils.
To replace these older institutions, the government will establish paid expert groups dedicated to specific cinematic genres. The members of these newly formed panels will be comprised of industry specialists nominated directly by various creative unions.
Improved conditions for projects
The reforms also introduce highly favourable financial regulations for state-commissioned films. These updates are designed to boost the commercial viability, visibility and creative freedom of local productions:
- Expanded marketing budgets: Filmmakers can now allocate up to 30% of their total production budget towards advertising and promotional campaigns.
- Box office bonuses: Producers and their creative teams will retain 50% of the distribution revenue from these films as an additional financial reward.
- Streamlined administration: The mandatory expert review of procurement contracts has been entirely cancelled to speed up the production process.
In a further bid to support and celebrate the domestic arts scene, the government has committed to elevating local talent. An annual fund of 5 bn UZS ($418) has been specifically ring-fenced to develop and promote the Oltin Humo national film awards.
