Film Auckland welcomes co-production agreement

Film Auckland welcomes co-production agreement with China

Film Auckland is very pleased to hear the news that yesterday the film co-production agreement with China has been signed.

In 2007 Film Auckland recognised China as a key country for growth for the screen industry and the organisation put in place a strategy for the building of relationships and business development with China.

Film Auckland has actively supported the development of the co-production agreement and sees it as a key tool for our industry in the generation of film projects between the two countries.

Film Auckland Executive Manager Michael Brook says "this is a significant milestone and a positive step forward in New Zealand’s working relationship with China."

In June Film Auckland was part of a screen delegation to China led by the Mayor of Waitakere City, Mayor Bob Harvey, and Film Auckland Board member, Pete Rive. The delegation had been organised by Waitakere City Council, and Mr Jim He, of the Pacific Culture and Arts Exchange Centre, with support from Film Auckland.

Meetings were held with key government and industry groups in China, as well as studios and producers. In a significant move, Film Auckland signed a Memorandum of Understanding agreement with the China Film Association, the largest filmmakers organisation in China.

“China’s interest in film is growing at a rapid rate, which gives New Zealand access to a very large and lucrative potential market. Already Chinese producers are actively looking at New Zealand for production partners,” says Mr Brook.

A key component of Film Auckland’s engagement with China will be Auckland and New Zealand hosting the Asia Pacific Producers Network conference in 2011.

The APN is an important group of 80 senior producers from around the Asia Pacific region who meet every year to progress co-operation and co-productions. Many senior Chinese producers are members of the APN.

ENDS

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