Canada and South Africa Renew Audiovisual Co-Production Agreement at FAME Week Africa
In a pivotal moment for the creative industries of both Canada and South Africa, the two nations have officially renewed their Audiovisual Co-Production Agreement. This updated agreement, first established in 1997, reflects the evolving landscape of the film and television sectors and reaffirms the commitment to fostering collaboration between the two countries. The renewal was formalised during FAME Week Africa, with Canadian High Commissioner Chris Cooter and South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, signing the updated pact.
The original co-production agreement, which has facilitated numerous successful partnerships over the past two decades, has now been revitalised to align with contemporary trends and technologies in the audiovisual industry. By renewing this agreement, Canada and South Africa are poised to strengthen their ties, offering filmmakers and producers enhanced opportunities to collaborate on projects that can benefit from the resources, talent, and expertise available in both countries.
The renewal is expected to lead to an increase in joint film and television productions, allowing projects to qualify as national productions in both Canada and South Africa. This status enables producers to access funding, tax incentives, and other benefits, making it easier to bring high-quality, diverse content to audiences around the world.
At the signing ceremony, Canadian High Commissioner Chris Cooter emphasised the importance of this renewed partnership, highlighting the mutual benefits that both countries stand to gain. South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, echoed these sentiments, underscoring the potential for the agreement to elevate South Africa’s standing in the global entertainment industry.
Nina Dube, Trade Commissioner at the Canadian High Commission in South Africa, also expressed her enthusiasm for the agreement, noting that it opens up new avenues for collaboration in the creative sectors. She emphasised the importance of this renewed pact in expanding South Africa’s global footprint and positioning the country as a key player in the international entertainment landscape.