Denmark to Launch Tax Incentive to Attract Foreign Film, TV Shoots

As a seasoned movie enthusiast who’s traveled far and wide to immerse myself in the rich tapestry of global cinema, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement at Denmark’s long-overdue decision to offer tax incentives for international TV and film productions.

Denmark has given the green light for a tax incentive aimed at attracting international television shows and movies. This puts them in line with all other Nordic nations, each offering similar rebate programs.

Denmark has been trailing behind other European countries like France, Germany, and the Czech Republic because it doesn’t offer tax incentives. Despite boasting a thriving creative community and being home to renowned directors such as Susanne Bier, Lars von Trier, Nicolas Winding Refn, and Thomas Vinterberg, Denmark is currently unique among European countries, along with Luxembourg, in not having a rebate program established yet.

Starting from 2026, the Danish incentive plan will access a yearly budget of DKK 125 million ($17.5 million). This is double the amount allocated for foreign productions in Sweden and significantly greater than in Norway. The anticipated rebate for eligible expenses is set at 25%.

Anna Porse Nielsen, who recently took over as head of the Danish Producers Association, shared with EbMaster that key decisions regarding the rate and other factors will be made by the year’s end. However, the implementation of this incentive won’t start earlier than 2026 since the budget for 2025 has already been approved.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that the recent initiative has garnered widespread support from creative minds and influential figures in the cinematic world, including homegrown talents like Birgitte Hjort Sørensen, the captivating star of “Borgen.

Nielsen stated, ‘Our film industry in Denmark is truly exceptional, boasting globally recognized talent in directing, acting, production, and crew work. Given our teams’ expertise in maintaining top-tier standards, it’s high time we introduce an incentive to entice international productions.’ Nielsen continued, explaining that it was the reluctance of Danish politicians to support specific industries that delayed this initiative for so long. However, as Denmark is now the only country without an incentive program, it has become a question of competitiveness. The industry in Denmark is thankful for finally receiving political backing.’

Denmark’s Minister of Culture, Jakob Engel-Schmidt, declared in a statement that it is crucial for the nation to create a smooth path for robust film and television productions, as they hold significant strategic importance.

Jakob Engel-Schmidt expressed his surprise that the series ‘Miss Smilla’s Feeling for Snow,’ set in Greenland and Denmark, was actually filmed in Latvia, Lithuania, and Iceland, despite those countries having production rebates. He believes it’s a missed opportunity for jobs, preserving Danish storytelling traditions, and showcasing the beauty of our country.

As a movie connoisseur, I’m swelling with pride as we stride forward, taking a monumental leap towards transforming Denmark into a formidable European hub for film and television productions. Who can predict the future? Perhaps the next captivating installment of the beloved series Emily in Paris will see its leading lady embark on a new journey, this time setting sail for the enchanting shores of Copenhagen.

Morten Dahlin, our minister for urban and rural affairs, stated that film and television productions aid in showcasing Denmark to the world. This exposure encourages more tourism and increased income for our nation as a whole.

For the years 2024 to 2026, Netflix is planning a total of 16 TV or film projects in Sweden, compared to six in Norway and just three in Denmark.

2024-11-25 18:46

Denmark to Launch Tax Incentive to Attract Foreign Film, TV Shoots

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