Czech Audiovisual Industry Turnover Plunges 27% in 2024

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czech Audiovisual Industry Bounces Back With Increased Incentives

Prague – After a challenging year, the Czech audiovisual industry is showing strong signs of recovery in 2025, fueled by increased financial incentives and strategic reforms. The Association Of Audiovisual Producers (Apa) reports that while the industry’s total turnover decreased by 27% last year, dipping below CZK 10 Billion, the tide is turning, thanks to newly implemented measures.

Foreign Production Demand Surges

Despite a prior slump attributed to a lack of competitive incentives, demand from foreign producers to film in the Czech Republic is once again on the rise.Although it will take some time to reach the record levels of 2022, when foreign filmmakers spent approximately CZK 11.3 Billion of the total CZK 15.4 Billion, the industry is optimistic.

The Apa Had forewarned that without reforms,the Czech Audiovisual Industry faced stagnation. Fortunately, their concerns have been addressed with the establishment of the New Czech Audiovisual Fund in January 2025. This Fund boasts a doubled budget and improved incentives, paving the way for growth and new opportunities.

Did You Know? Prague’s Barrandov Studios is one of the oldest and largest film studio facilities in Europe, often called the “European Hollywood.”

Key Reforms Drive Growth

According To Apa Head Vratislav Slajer,the much-needed reform of public television financing is also playing a vital role. The public Broadcaster Is A Important Investor In audiovisual Production,supporting diverse projects,including documentaries,animation,and children’s programming.

An Amendment To The Audiovisual Law, passed last October, increased the basic film incentive from 20% to 25% and raised the maximum incentive per project to CZK 450 Million. Animation and digital production now benefit from a 35% incentive.

Furthermore, The Czech Republic offers Filmmakers quick access to incentives and favorable procedural financial terms.

Animation And gaming Receive a Boost

The Amendment Introduced a separate pillar for animation and gaming, injecting new energy into these sectors. Creative Vouchers,managed by the Culture Ministry from the National Recovery Plan,have further contributed CZK 200 Million to the audiovisual sector.

The Advertising Industry is also experiencing a resurgence. Following a 13% decline last year, turnover has rebounded, surpassing the 2022 record, reaching just under CZK 2.5 Billion.

Prague: A Sci-Fi Filming Hub

The Czech Republic Remains A Prime Destination For International Film Projects, highlighted by Prague hosting two major science fiction productions last year: “Blade Runner 2099” For Amazon Prime and another series of “Foundation”, inspired by Isaac Asimov’s book series.

Czech Vod (Video On demand) Production Achieved record growth last year, reaching CZK 381 Million, even as film and series production declined. Domestic Production Continues Its Upward trajectory, although volumes remain below 2023 levels.

What types of films or series would you like to see filmed in the Czech republic?

Czech Audiovisual Industry: Key Figures

Metric	2022	Last Year (2024)	2025 (Projected)
Total Turnover	CZK 13.7 Billion	under CZK 10 Billion (-27%)	Increasing
Foreign Production Spending	CZK 11.3 Billion	Substantially Decreased (-40%)	Increasing
film Incentive	20%	20%	25%
animation/Digital Incentive	N/A	N/A	35%
Vod Production	N/A	CZK 381 Million (Record Growth)	Continued Growth

Pro Tip: Filmmakers should explore co-production opportunities with Czech companies to maximize access to local incentives and resources.

Why The Czech Republic Is A Top Filming Location

• Rich History and Architecture: Prague boasts stunning past sites that can double for various time periods and locations.
• Skilled Crew: The Czech Republic is home to experienced film professionals, ensuring high-quality production values.
• Strategic Location: Its central European location provides easy access to other filming locations across the continent.
• Cost-Effective: Compared to Western european countries and the US, the Czech Republic offers competitive production costs.

Frequently Asked Questions