"This recognition is likely to have a positive impact on job creation, as more filming companies and their teams of people visit South Africa to reap the benefits of filming in a unique location that provides a variety of settings in one country, at low production costs and good exchange rates," Shelver says.
The local niche insurance industry is also set to benefit, as local insurers are far more familiar with the specific risks - including location and seasonal changes - facing filmmakers and postproduction companies. "Each region has its own range of specific issues. For example, Cape Town is prone to extreme winds while Gauteng can be subject to electrical storms, so it is always best to source a local insurance company that understands the risks facing the local market."
Furthermore, the government dispensation may also bolster the commercial filming industry in Cape Town, which typically runs from October to April. He says that while this is already well utilised by foreigners, it has become more appealing with the incentive scheme.
"It is also important to encourage the use of local resources to overcome any unforeseen difficulties. By using companies that provide specifically tailored solutions, filmmakers will better ensure that if anything does go wrong, they will be comprehensively covered," concludes Shelver.
