Uzbekistan to offer financial incentives to foreign films to boost tourism

Uzbekistan is introducing a financial incentive programme for foreign film producers that feature the country's tourist attractions and cultural heritage, under a new government initiative aimed at promoting the country as a filming destination.

According to a decree by the Cabinet of Ministers, foreign productions will be eligible for reimbursement of filming costs incurred in Uzbekistan. Additional incentive payments will be available for projects that prominently showcase the country's cultural heritage and tourism potential, Caliber.Az reports per Uzbek media. 

Funding will be provided through the Tourism Support Fund, with the amount of compensation determined individually for each project. To qualify, films must clearly portray their locations as being in Uzbekistan rather than depicting them as fictional settings or other countries.

Projects must also meet at least one of several eligibility criteria, including guaranteed distribution on international streaming platforms with more than one million subscribers, theatrical release in at least three countries with screenings on 1,000 cinema screens, the participation of Oscar, Golden Globe or BAFTA-winning actors in leading roles, or recognition through awards at FIAPF-accredited Category "A" international film festivals.

The Project Office for the Development of Tourism Products will negotiate with production companies, while the Tourism Support Fund's board will make the final decisions on incentive payments.

Compensation will be paid in two stages: after filming is completed and following the film's premiere.

By Sabina Mammadli