Taiwan Today

A three-year plan to promote Taiwan’s capital as a center for film industry production has generated over NT$1.5 billion (US$46.9 million) in economic benefits, according to Lee Yong-ping, director of Taipei City Government’s Cultural Affairs Department Feb. 21. “The initiative created numerous job opportunities and contributed to boosting Taipei’s economy,” Lee said. “In making the city a filmmaking-friendly location, its international profile also received a major boost.” Administered by the city government’s Taipei Film Commission, the program seeks to entice more film companies to shoot in Taipei. “We offer a variety of incentives,” Lee said. “These include subsidies and providing logistical and promotional assistance.” According to Lee, the commission’s application process has been streamlined and can now be completed online. “In the past, the procedure for securing shooting permits in Taipei was a morass of red tape,” she said. “Applying is much simpler and convenient now.” Lee said the commission recently helped a number of Indian filmmakers shoot at renowned scenic spots such as Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and the National Palace Museum. “Their experiences were positive and rewarding,” she said, adding that five Bollywood films are now expected to follow suit and film in Taipei. With nearly 176 films and television programs approved under the project, Lee said the commission views the initiative as a step in the right direction toward developing Taipei as an international film hub. “Out of the approved applications, 25 were co-produced by multinational partners from 18 countries,” she said. “As the global economy recovers, we expect to see this number increase significantly.” (CYH-JSM)