The European Audiovisual Observatory has commissioned a brand new report from consultants Olsberg•SPI on fiscal incentives (tax shelters, rebates, credits) and their impact on film and audiovisual production in Europe. This report will be presented at a free entry public conference in Brussels on Monday 20 October from 11.00 – 13.00. The event is hosted by the Representation of the Free State of Bavaria to the EU, 77 rue Wiertz, Brussels.

The Observatory’s Executive Director, Susanne Nikoltchev stated that this new report and conference should “shed some much needed light on the effects of fiscal incentives on the European production landscape.” Nikoltchev pointed out the study was financed by a contribution from Observatory member, the Finnish Ministry of Education and Culture and expressed her thanks for the funding of this “unique study – the first of its kind in Europe.”

The report will be presented by Jonathan Olsberg, Chairman, and Andrew Barnes, Associate Director of Olsberg•SPI. An expert panel will bring together experts such as Benoît Ginisty, Director General of the FIAPF (International Federation of Film Producers’ Associations) (tbc), Pauline Durand-Vialle, Secretary General of FERA (Federation of European Film Directors) and Johannes Studinger, Head of UNI MEI.

The panel discussion will focus on dealing with the needs of production infrastructure which has increased as a result of fiscal incentives. The question of balancing the growth of domestic and international production sectors will be analysed. Possible adverse effects from the introduction of fiscal incentives will also be discussed.

The working language of this conference is English. Participation is free but upon registration only. To reserve a seat, contact alison.hindhaugh@coe.int .

More information about the programme here.