China’s massive film market and diverse locations have long attracted international filmmakers. However, to shoot a foreign co-production in China, it’s important to understand the specific regulatory, legal, and cultural frameworks that govern joint film ventures in the country.
This guide outlines what you need to know before launching a co-production project in China—including approval processes, benefits, and practical production tips.
What Is a Foreign Co-Production in China?
A foreign co-production refers to a film jointly produced by at least one Chinese entity and a foreign production company. To qualify officially, the project must meet certain criteria laid out by Chinese regulators, particularly the China Film Administration (formerly SARFT).
Key Benefits of Official Co-Productions
✅ Access to Chinese Box Office
Co-productions are treated as domestic films in China, giving them full access to local theaters and a larger share of box office revenue than imported films.
✅ Avoid Import Quotas
Co-productions are exempt from China’s annual quota on foreign films, which typically limits imported titles to around 34 per year.
✅ Local Funding & Resources
You may gain access to Chinese financing, government support, production services, and subsidies.
✅ Cultural Credibility & Market Entry
A joint production can boost your film’s appeal in China and facilitate smoother market entry for future projects.
Regulatory Requirements
✔️ Chinese Partner
You must co-produce with a Chinese film production company licensed to engage in international co-productions.
✔️ Joint Script Approval
The script must be submitted in Chinese for approval by the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA). Sensitive themes (e.g., politics, religion, Tibet, Taiwan) may face rejection or heavy scrutiny.
✔️ Shared Investment & Participation
Both parties must contribute financially and creatively. The Chinese side must have significant involvement in writing, directing, or acting.
✔️ Location & Talent Quotas
There are limits on the number of foreign cast/crew members and a requirement to shoot part of the film in China.
✔️ Final Approval
A final review of the completed film is mandatory before release or distribution.
Practical Tips for Foreign Filmmakers
🎯 Find the Right Local Partner
Choose a production company with co-production experience and strong government relationships.
📄 Budget for Delays
Approvals can take weeks to months. Build this into your schedule.
🎥 Use a Fixer or Local Producer
They can help manage permits, visas, crew hiring, and translation—essential for smooth daily operations.
🌐 Language & Culture Matter
Language barriers and cultural nuances affect everything from on-set workflow to script approval. A bilingual crew and cultural advisor are invaluable.
📍 Permits & Locations
Even with co-production status, city-level permits are still needed. Plan location shoots early and work with a team familiar with local processes.
Common Challenges
⚠️ Censorship & Content Restrictions
Be ready for required script changes, even after filming begins.
⚠️ Bureaucracy
Paperwork can be extensive, and approval times are often unpredictable.
⚠️ Creative Control
The Chinese co-producer and regulators may request creative input to ensure the story aligns with cultural and political sensitivities.
Alternatives to Official Co-Productions
If an official co-production is too complex, you can:
- Shoot as a foreign production with a permit, but the film will be treated as an import.
- Partner informally with a local service company for production support (not officially a co-production, but simpler).
Conclusion
A foreign co-production in China offers exciting opportunities—but requires careful planning, the right partnerships, and regulatory awareness. When done right, it can open doors to one of the world’s largest film markets and a wealth of cinematic potential.
📧 Need help navigating your next project in China?
Contact Shoot In China at [email protected] — we offer bilingual production support, fixer services, and co-production consulting across the country.
