PHNOM PENH: The Cambodia Tourism Board (CTB), in collaboration with the Department of Cinema and Cultural Diffusion (CDDC), represented the kingdom on the international stage at the March 17-20 Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART).
Joined by six of the kingdom’s leading production companies, the delegation showcased Cambodia’s growing potential as a competitive and attractive international filming destination.
As one of the Asia’s premier entertainment content marketplaces, FILMART welcomed approximately 8,000 industry professionals from 53 countries and regions, alongside more than 790 exhibitors, representing a record 38 markets. The event provided a strategic platform for global stakeholders to explore partnerships and emerging opportunities across the film and television landscape.
A key highlight of Cambodia’s presence was the “Cambodia, Your Next Film Destination“ seminar, co-hosted by the CTB and CDDC. The session spotlighted the Kingdom’s diverse natural and cultural landscapes, expanding production capabilities and supportive regulatory framework.
The Cambodia delegation introduced key incentives for international filmmakers, including streamlined permit processes, competitive production costs and strong government support.
“We received strong interest in filming opportunities in Cambodia and established valuable connections. To support international filmmakers, we have introduced a film location scouting support programme, which covers on-ground costs, including accommodation, local transportation and local guidance for up to five days, making it easier for international productions to explore Cambodia’s diverse filming locations,” explained Kim Minea, CTB CEO.
Building on this momentum to showcase Cambodia through film, CTB also signed a emorandum of understanding (MoU) with Oceanus Media Global (OMG Studios) at FILMART to co-create cross-border microdramas.
“By working with international studios and embracing new storytelling formats and platforms, Cambodia is connecting with new audiences and showcasing the depth and vibrancy of the country in a more engaging way,” explained Minea.
These engagements opened pathways for potential collaborations and co-productions, while further elevating Cambodia’s unique and diverse filming locations on the global stage.
Throughout the four-day event, the Cambodian delegation, including CTB, CDDC, Mediaload Pictures, CAMPRO Film Production, Westec Media Limited, BlackBox Entertainment, Palm Film Production and Sastra Film, engaged with more than 100 international partners, including producers, distributors, sales agents, investors, media and content creators.
“The Hong Kong Film Mart opened new pathways for co-production, distribution and international investment in Cambodian film projects,” said Chhay Bora, director and producer of Palm Film Productions.
Bun Channimol, CEO and Founder of Sastra Film. shared her enthusiasm.
“Sastra Film brought several titles to FILMART and received strong interest from buyers across key markets such as Malaysia, Taiwan, Indonesia, Japan, the Philippines, Vietnam, Turkey and Russia,” she said.
Expressing optimism for the future of Cambodia’s film industry, she added: “We can go far if we continue to work hard and stay united”. - The Phnom Penh/ANN
