Thailand continues to be a popular location for foreign filmmaking
Thailand remains attractive for international film producers, who have frequently chosen the country as a popular shooting location. During the first quarter of 2018, a total of 224 foreign film projects were shot on location in Thailand.
The top three countries among foreign filmmakers shooting in Thailand thus far are India, Germany, and China. In 2017, a total of 810 foreign film projects were shot on location in Thailand, bringing in 3,074 million baht. Topping the list of foreign filmmakers were China, India, and the US.
The Department of Tourism is encouraging foreign filmmakers to shoot in secondary tourist cities in order to generate more jobs and income in rural areas, as well as distributing wealth to local communities. This will also make Thailand’s secondary cities better known worldwide and attract more tourist arrivals.
In its recent meeting, a committee to follow up on the operations in accordance with the Government’s policies approved the granting of more privileges to foreign filmmaking in Thailand and the promotion of the film and video industry.
The Department of Tourism, through the Thailand Film Office, is responsible for granting permission for foreign filmmakers seeking to film in Thailand. It also aims to conduct public relations to promote investments in foreign film production here.
Among the most attractive destinations for foreign filmmakers are Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Pattaya, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and
Krabi. Thailand’s diverse geographical characteristics, historical sites, natural beauty, local cultures, and the hospitality of the people have made the country attractive for international film producers.
Meanwhile, the Tourism Authority of Thailand announced that Thailand has been named the host country for the 19th International Indian Film Academy Awards, which is scheduled to be held in Bangkok from 22 to 24 June 2018. This makes the second time Bangkok plays host to the biggest celebration of Indian cinema.