Film industry generates $255.9m

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Prof Biman Prasad. Picture: SUPPLIED

Filmakers contributed $255.9million to the economy in the past two years, creating 1268 employment opportunities, according to Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad.

He said filmmakers generated $113.8m in new economic activities and created 826 jobs in 2022. Local spending in the film industry that year stood at $40.6m. Speaking at the Suva International Short Film Festival 2025, Prof Prasad said the Government has supported the industry for many years.

“In the 2025/2026 budget, I announced a film tax rebate and $10.3m for new productions. To qualify, feature films and broadcast television programs must spend a minimum of $250,000 in Fiji,” he said.

“The Government is also looking at ways to support the film industry in areas such as film studios, a large water tank (for underwater filming) and adequately trained and skilled crew and support actors.

“There is also an opportunity to develop local talent of aspiring and existing film crews and local producers through the established Film Fiji audio visual lab and the creation of an audio-visual incubator.”