Punjab film city set for December 15 inauguration as authority approves industry incentives

Punjab's first modern Film City is approaching completion and is scheduled to be inaugurated on December 15, marking a significant step

LAHORE: Punjab’s first modern Film City is approaching completion and is scheduled to be inaugurated on December 15, marking a significant step towards revitalising Pakistan’s film industry and restoring Lahore’s historic status as a centre of filmmaking, culture and tourism.

The provincial government has approved financial incentives for filmmakers, including a 35 percent rebate for Punjabi films and a 20 percent rebate for Urdu films produced in Punjab. The initiative aims to encourage quality productions, attract investment and provide financial support to local filmmakers.

The decisions were taken during the first meeting of the Punjab Film Authority, chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. The meeting focused on strengthening the province’s filmmaking infrastructure, introducing modern facilities and creating an environment conducive to the growth of the entertainment industry.

The authority also approved the preparation of Punjab’s first royalty law. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed officials to present the proposed legislation at the authority’s next meeting, highlighting the government’s focus on establishing a regulatory framework for the industry.

According to the approved plan, the Film City project will feature a comprehensive range of facilities, including a film and music school, a film museum, a film trading house, post-production facilities, a studio complex, modern film studios and a convention centre. These facilities are expected to support filmmakers at different stages of production and promote professional development within the industry.

To simplify filming procedures, the authority decided to introduce an online one-window system. The facility will enable filmmakers to identify and select suitable filming locations across Punjab through a centralised digital platform, reducing administrative hurdles and making the province more accessible for domestic and international productions.

The proposed budget of the Film City Authority for the financial year 2026-27, exceeding Rs589 million, was referred to the financing committee for further review. The meeting also approved recruitment against 26 of the authority’s 53 sanctioned positions during the initial phase.

Progress on establishing six committees, including the Punjab Film Fund Committee, was also reviewed. The authority’s board will have the power to make appointments and dismissals as part of its administrative responsibilities.

In another major decision, the meeting approved measures to restore old cinemas, install solar energy systems and provide affordable entertainment facilities to the public. An online cinema ticket booking system will also be introduced to improve accessibility and modernise the cinema-going experience.

The authority further approved a training programme under which young filmmakers will receive guidance from international experts in contemporary filmmaking techniques. The initiative is intended to develop local talent and bring professional standards in Punjab’s film industry closer to international practices.

Addressing the meeting, Marriyum Aurangzeb said the chief minister envisioned transforming Punjab into a global hub for screen tourism within five years. She emphasised that the province’s cultural heritage and traditions would be promoted internationally through films and other screen productions.

She added that Film City would establish an integrated ecosystem for filmmaking, helping revive the industry, attract investors, create employment opportunities and ensure access to quality, affordable entertainment.

Earlier, on October 10, 2026, Marriyum Aurangzeb administered the oath to the newly elected leadership of the Pakistan Film Producers Association (PFPA) in Lahore and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the industry’s revival. Actor Shaan Shahid also urged filmmakers and other industry professionals to work collectively and embrace modern techniques to ensure Pakistani cinema meets evolving audience expectations.