Republican Cinematography Commission, National and Artistic Councils to be abolished

Uzbekistan will completely abolish the Republican Cinematography Commission, as well as the National and Artistic Councils, which have been operating under an outdated system. This was announced today, June 1, during President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s meeting with representatives of the culture and arts sector.

It was noted that, starting from September 1 this year, up to 30 percent of a film’s budget will be allocated for promotion and advertising expenses when producing films under state orders. The requirement to subject procurement contracts to expert review will also be abolished. In addition, foreign companies’ activities related to film production in Uzbekistan will be exempt from taxes.

Half of the revenue generated from screenings of films produced under state orders will be given to producers and creative teams as an additional incentive.

To raise the prestige of the Oltin Humo national film awards, organized by the Creative Union of Cinematographers of Uzbekistan, to a new level, 5 billion soums will be allocated annually.

The Republican Cinematography Commission, as well as the National and Artistic Councils, are said to have failed to move away from outdated management practices and an ineffective control system. Therefore, in order to promote creative freedom and healthy competition in the sector, the activities of these commissions and councils will be completely terminated.

Going forward, paid expert groups consisting of specialists in the relevant fields will be established based on each film’s genre and theme.

Specialists recommended by the Creative Union of Cinematographers of Uzbekistan, the Writers’ Union and the Composers’ Union will be included in these expert groups. Officials have been instructed to submit proposals on introducing a modern and transparent system in the film industry.