RioFilme Launching New International Co-Production Incentives, Debuting at Gramado Film Festival

RioFilme, the municipal film agency for Rio de Janeiro, is set to announce new financial incentives aimed at attracting international co-productions to Brazil. Details are expected to be unveiled at the Gramado Film Festival.

While full terms haven’t been disclosed yet, the move signals Brazil’s continued push to position Rio as a competitive destination for US and international producers looking to co-produce or shoot abroad. Co-production incentives typically combine funding access, local tax benefits, and service deals — factors that directly affect line producers and UPMs scoping locations and financing structures.

US producers exploring Latin American shoots should watch this space closely. Brazil already offers compelling production value — diverse locations, experienced local crew base, and lower-than-US labor costs — but incentive clarity has historically been a sticking point for American productions. If RioFilme’s new program offers meaningful cash rebates or co-financing access for foreign partners, it could move Brazil higher on the shortlist for internationally set projects.

Specifics on eligibility, rebate percentages, and application processes are expected once the formal announcement drops at Gramado. Producers actively developing international projects should flag this and revisit once terms are published.