Translated using ChatGPT service.
At the Cabinet of Ministers meeting on February 11 of this year, a new support program for state assistance in foreign film production and the organization of major events in Latvia was approved. The first selection round for receiving support for foreign film production in Latvia is planned to be announced within the next three weeks. It is expected that, by implementing the new support program, supported projects could increase Latvia’s total export volume by €72 million over the next three years, resulting in an economic impact three times greater than the state’s invested funding.
A significant step has been taken towards attracting approximately €40 million in investments to Latvia. The film industry is a global, billion-dollar sector, in which Latvia has both historical experience and achievements. "Each such project—whether it is a major event or a film—not only attracts investments but also serves as an essential promotion tool for several related industries," emphasized Jurgis Miezainis, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Economics.
The support program has been created as a permanent regulation for co-financing the organization of major events and foreign film production in Latvia. It will provide opportunities for representatives of various industries to attract large international events to Latvia, as well as to bring in strong foreign film producers to Latvia’s film industry, thereby boosting entrepreneurship, export revenue, and strengthening the country’s international recognition.
The Latvian Investment and Development Agency (LIAA) will provide state support for foreign film production and the organization of major events in Latvia. The co-financing amount for each project will be 30% of the total eligible implementation costs.
Definition of Foreign Film and Major Event Under the Support Program
Under the support program, a foreign film is defined as a completed audiovisual or cinematographic work, including a film, film series, part, or season, consisting of a sequence of interconnected images creating an impression of movement, with or without sound, intended for public release. The implementation costs must be covered by a foreign-registered company.
Additionally, it has been established that the total project costs for feature films and animated films must be at least €711,436, while for documentary films, they must be at least €142,287.
A major event under the support program is defined as an international-scale event, which is:
- Organized, delegated, or partnered with a global or European-level organization,
- Has a significant impact on Latvia’s economy,
- Attracts at least 5,000 foreign visitors and participants,
- Requires a minimum two-night stay in Latvian tourist accommodations or short-term rentals,
- Occurs no more than once every four years.
It is also specified that a major event that was last held within a shorter period may still qualify for state support if the new project is significantly larger in scale—meaning that its projected revenue and expenses are at least three times greater than those of the previous edition of the event.
Location Requirements for Foreign Films and Major Events
Under the support program, the location for foreign film production and major event organization is Latvia. However, in the case of major events, Latvia does not necessarily have to be the sole location. For instance, if a major event takes place in multiple locations (such as a competition stage in Latvia), co-financing will be provided only for the part of the event that occurs in Latvia, not for the entire event.
Allocated Funding for 2025–2027
The allocated state funding for supporting foreign film production and major event organization in Latvia is as follows:
- €7.5 million in 2025,
- €7.9 million in 2026,
- €8.3 million in 2027.
Economic Impact and Societal Benefits
The film industry’s services significantly stimulate economic development, enhance Latvia’s international image, and increase exports, productivity, and the global competence of Latvia’s film sector. With state co-financing, the program effectively promotes employment across multiple economic sectors, including those not directly related to the film industry, such as:
- Hospitality,
- Catering,
- Transport services, and more.
Additionally, major events, depending on their type, contribute to:
- Public well-being,
- Public health,
- Preservation and promotion of cultural heritage,
- Social engagement and participation.
Participation in large-scale events strengthens social cohesion and a sense of community among participants.