Studio space is key for luring international productions to Japan (exclusive)

A lack of studio space in Tokyo is a hurdle to both domestic and international productions, according to Ruriko Sekine, Secretary General of the Japan Film Commission.

Speaking to KFTV at the 36th Tokyo International Film Festival content market (Tiffcom), Sekine was quietly confident in the success of the newly established tax rebate project.  

"The project is a one-year one because it's provided by the government, so we can't say [what will happen] for the next year because we're not sure, the government decides. They believe that they can continue it into the next year, too, so we hope this project will be the eternal one," Sekine said when asked about the prospects of the tax rebate scheme. 

The program is run by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade Industry; operated by the Visual Industry Promotion Organisation (VIPO); and coordinated by the Japan Film Commission (JFC), meaning the film commission must work closely with the government to ensure the longevity of the program.

While international productions in the area have increased, thanks to the skilled crews and diverse landscapes, Sekine cited a lack of studio space in Tokyo as a hurdle not only to international productions but domestic ones. 

Many filmmakers want to see studios built in Tokyo, where space is limited. However, Osaka would make a good option for studio development, Sekine said, because it has a big international airport and more space.

"We are trying to attract international studio companies to build new studios," Sekine said. In addition to infrastructure, The Japan Film Commission's current goal is to work with the government so "that the basic incentive programme should be the eternal one."