Taiwan Suspends International Co-funding Program Amid Strategic Shift
By Gabriel Rivera
Published January 5, 2024
Taiwan has made the decision to suspend its Taiwan International Co-funding Program (TICP), signaling a shift towards more mainstream projects. This move has raised concerns within Taiwan's production community, as the fund has been instrumental in supporting a wide range of international co-production projects, many of which have achieved recognition at prestigious international film festivals such as Berlin, Venice, and Cannes.
Statement from Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA)
When approached for comment, the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA), which oversees the fund, stated that the decision to suspend the TICP aims to enhance international joint funding and co-production opportunities. It seeks to attract a broader spectrum of large-scale investment projects and foster more collaborations between Taiwan and the global community.
Details of the TICP
The TICP, launched in January 2021, provides investment of up to $300,000 or 30% of a production's budget for co-production projects involving Taiwanese elements in the production team and/or story. It offers investment, not grants, and requires a profit-sharing arrangement for a period of five years if the production breaks even.
Notable Projects Supported by TICP
The TICP has co-funded several notable projects, including films that premiered at esteemed festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice. These projects have garnered international acclaim and accolades, demonstrating the fund's significant impact on the global film landscape.
Strategic Shift and Political Context
The decision to suspend the TICP is likely connected to changes in strategic direction at Taiwan's Ministry of Culture and the upcoming election. The government's recent signaling of a shift in cultural content policy towards mainstream projects and potential investments in infrastructure and private companies reflects broader changes in the country's cultural landscape.
Future of International Co-Productions in Taiwan
While the suspension of the TICP raises questions about the future of international co-productions in Taiwan, the country's commitment to supporting creative industries is evident through initiatives such as the 'One Plus Four – T-Content Plan.' The role of the National Development Fund in shaping Taiwan's cultural policy and the potential impact on foreign entities collaborating with Taiwanese talent remain subjects of interest and speculation.
Impact on Taiwanese Filmmakers and International Collaborations
The suspension of the TICP may have implications for Taiwanese filmmakers and international collaborations. It has been instrumental in attracting projects to Taiwan for post-production and other services, contributing to the country's presence in the global film industry. The visibility of Taiwanese filmmakers at international festivals and their engagement in co-production endeavors may undergo shifts in light of these developments.
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