Punjab plans royalty law and film industry rebates

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has announced plans to introduce Pakistan’s first royalty law for the film industry, alongside a new rebate policy designed to support Punjabi and Urdu film productions across the province. The initiatives aim to revive local cinema, attract investment and strengthen Punjab’s position as a major centre for filmmaking and entertainment.

The announcement was made during the first meeting of the Punjab Film Authority in Lahore, chaired by Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb. The meeting focused on measures to improve the filmmaking environment, provide financial assistance to producers and establish modern facilities for the province’s entertainment industry.

According to the proposed plan, the royalty law will be presented at the authority’s next meeting. The legislation is expected to introduce a formal framework for royalties within the film industry, potentially supporting a more structured and sustainable environment for filmmakers and other industry professionals.

The provincial government has also approved a rebate policy for films produced in Punjab. Under the plan, Punjabi-language films will receive a 35 per cent rebate, while Urdu-language productions will qualify for a 20 per cent rebate. The initiative is intended to reduce production costs, encourage quality filmmaking and attract more investors to the local entertainment sector.

Another major decision involves introducing an online, one-window facility to help filmmakers identify suitable shooting locations across Punjab. The digital service is expected to simplify the process of finding filming sites and make production arrangements more convenient for directors, producers and production teams.

Film City project set for December inauguration

Punjab is also preparing to inaugurate a major Film City project in Lahore on December 15. The initiative is being developed as a comprehensive entertainment hub designed to revive the province’s cinematic heritage and promote film, drama, culture and tourism.

The proposed Film City will include a film and music school, a film museum, a film trading house and dedicated post-production facilities. It will also feature a studio complex, modern film studios and what is planned to become Pakistan’s largest convention centre.

These facilities are expected to provide filmmakers with access to advanced production infrastructure while creating opportunities for training, collaboration and investment. The project is also intended to help strengthen the local film industry by bringing different aspects of filmmaking and entertainment together in one location.

The Film City Authority’s proposed budget of more than Rs589 million for the 2026-27 financial year was referred to the financing committee for review.

During the meeting, approval was also granted to recruit 26 employees in the first phase against 53 sanctioned positions. The authority’s board will have the power to appoint and dismiss staff members as part of its administrative responsibilities.

Cinema restoration and training initiatives approved

The meeting reviewed progress on establishing six committees, including the Punjab Film Fund Committee, to support the implementation of various industry development measures.

Plans were also approved to restore old cinemas, install solar energy systems and improve access to affordable entertainment facilities for the public. An online cinema booking system will be introduced to make purchasing tickets easier and improve the overall viewing experience.

In addition, the government approved a training programme for young filmmakers. International experts will provide instruction in modern filmmaking techniques, helping emerging talent develop the technical knowledge and creative skills needed to compete in an increasingly competitive entertainment industry.

Punjab targets global screen tourism

Marriyum Aurangzeb said Maryam Nawaz wanted Punjab to become a global-standard screen tourism destination within five years. She added that the province’s distinctive culture, historical heritage and traditions would be presented to international audiences through films and other screen productions.

The government views the planned Film City as a central part of its broader strategy to revitalise the entertainment sector, attract investment, generate employment and expand tourism opportunities.

With financial incentives, new infrastructure, cinema restoration and professional training forming part of the plan, Punjab aims to create a stronger foundation for local filmmaking. The initiatives are expected to support industry growth while making quality entertainment more accessible to the public.