Issue 29
Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi presided over Thai Night 2015 at Cannes, France, organised by the DITP at Salon Croisette, Hotel Majestic Barrière on May 15. Apiradi Tantraporn, Deputy Minister of Commerce and DITP Director-General Nuntawan Sakuntanaga welcomed Her Royal Highness to the event.
“The Thai entertainment and film industry has advanced into the world’s top ranks, especially the film industry, which has become a major key in the country’s economic drive,” said Tantraporn. “Thailand is now ready to become the leading content producer and a centre for production. Especially with the upcoming ASEAN Economy Community, Thailand will cooperate more with other Southeast Asia countries to ensure that the country remains competitive in the entertainment and film industry.”
Earnings from foreign films shot in Thailand reached over US$58 million in 2014. Cemetery of Splendour by Thai director, Apichatpong Weerasethakul was one of the 53 films selected for Cannes Film Festival 2015, held between May 13 and 24.
“Overall, the film industry market last year reached an approximate value of 24 billion baht,” said Sakuntanaga. “This year, it is projected that the market value will increase by 10%. Thailand has a film service business strategy to become a production base and gateway for oversea business operators who are starting their businesses in the region.”
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