BREAKING: A coalition of over 30 film organizations in Germany has issued an urgent call for the government to implement mandatory local content quotas for streaming platforms. This demand comes as industry leaders express concerns that current voluntary agreements are insufficient for the future of German cinema.
In an open letter published today, the organizations declared, “Voluntary declarations of intent will not be enough to create a stable and fair framework for long-term planning.” They emphasized that only legally binding regulations will ensure sustainable investment in the German film sector, ultimately benefiting creative professionals.
The Produzentenallianz, Germany’s leading producers’ association, criticized the government’s recent proposals, suggesting that any quota based solely on voluntary agreements represents a significant retreat from the government’s commitment made in April 2025. This commitment was part of a crucial reform to enhance the German film funding system.
According to the Produzentenallianz, “These non-transparent agreements are on shaky ground and are not reliable.” They stress that such measures fail to provide the necessary security for investments in German-language productions and do not guarantee the added value that a well-crafted law would deliver.
Earlier this year, an amended German Film Law (FFG) came into effect, which placed the German Federal Film Board (FFA) in charge of film funding at the federal level. This new structure was designed to streamline funding processes, including the integration of the cultural film funding program. However, plans for a tax incentive model were abandoned due to anticipated bureaucratic challenges between the federal government and the 16 federal states.
Despite these setbacks, Culture Minister Claudia Roth and her successor, Weimer, have continued to champion an investment obligation. The industry, however, has expressed widespread dissatisfaction with the current proposals, calling for a more robust legislative approach to support local content production.
As the debate unfolds, the future of German cinema hangs in the balance, with industry stakeholders urging immediate action to secure a thriving production environment.
WHAT’S NEXT: The German film industry is closely monitoring government responses to these demands. Stakeholders are particularly focused on upcoming discussions regarding formal legislation that could reshape the funding landscape. With a pressing need for transparency and security in investments, the pressure mounts for decisive action from authorities.
Stay tuned for the latest developments on this critical issue affecting the future of film in Germany.
