Presenting this bill, adopted by 37 votes in favor and 5 abstentions, the Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, stressed that this legislative text aims to “create a developed film industry, at the height of the aspirations of the Kingdom and based on the principles of governance, competition and equal opportunities, and also aims to consolidate the principle and rules of openness.
This bill, noted the minister, aims to “rehabilitate the cinematographic sector as a lever for socio-economic and cultural growth, and to push it towards professionalism in order to support competitive developments at the international level, in addition to provide the CCM wiht new prerogatives aimed at supporting the film industry, promoting Morocco as a destination for filming, developing the sector and rationalizing its management.
According to the minister, the bill brings a set of new features relating mainly to the development of legal rules relating to the authorization to exercise the activity of film production, in addition to establishing a new international approval system allowing executive production on behalf of natural or legal persons not subject to Moroccan law.
This text also defines the rules governing the commercial and cultural exploitation of cinematographic films and provides for the adoption of an authorization system for the distribution of cinematographic films,in addition to the obligation to have an authorization issued by the CCM for the filming of films and the definition of filming locations for cinematographic films and audiovisual works within the framework of filming authorization,he specified.
And to add that the bill requires universities, establishments and training institutes in the field of cinema and audiovisual professions to make prior declarations to the CCM in the context of the work and activities of their students.
What are the main objectives of Morocco’s new film bill introduced by Minister Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid?
Interview with Film Industry Expert on Morocco’s New Film Bill
Editor: Thank you for joining us today. To start, can you provide an overview of the new film bill introduced by Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid?
Expert: Absolutely! The recently adopted film bill, which received overwhelming support with 37 votes in favor and only 5 abstentions, is a significant step toward revitalizing Morocco’s film industry. The minister emphasized that this legislation aims to align the industry with the aspirations of the Kingdom while focusing on governance, competition, and equal opportunities. it seeks to rehabilitate the cinematographic sector as a driving force for socio-economic and cultural development.
Editor: How does this bill aim to enhance Morocco’s position in the international film arena?
Expert: One of the key elements of the bill is its intention to professionalize the film industry. By establishing new legal frameworks for film production and introducing an international approval system, Morocco can attract both local and international filmmakers.This will not only promote Morocco as a prime filming destination but also bolster the contry’s competitive edge on the global stage.
Editor: What specific changes can we expect regarding the production and distribution processes of cinematographic works?
Expert: The bill introduces several significant regulations. For instance, it outlines the rules governing film production authorization, alongside the necessity for an authorization issued by the Center Cinématographique Marocain (CCM) for filming. It also sets a framework for the commercial and cultural distribution of cinematographic works, which will help streamline operations within the industry. Additionally, the new regulations will require educational institutions in cinema and audiovisual studies to inform the CCM about the activities of their students, thus integrating the academic sector into the professional landscape.
editor: What impact do you think this will have on aspiring filmmakers and production companies in Morocco?
Expert: The implications are significant. For aspiring filmmakers, this legislation opens doors to a more structured habitat, one that encourages creativity while ensuring professionalism. It creates a level playing field for filmmakers, providing them with access to vital resources and support from the CCM. For production companies,the bill delineates clear pathways for legal compliance,facilitating smoother operations and possibly attracting international collaboration.
editor: Are there any challenges you foresee with the implementation of this bill?
Expert: while the bill is promising, there may be challenges ahead. The practical submission of these new regulations will require effective oversight by the CCM, which may be a strain on their current resources. Furthermore,there may also be a need for industry stakeholders to adapt quickly to these changes,and this transition process could uncover issues related to enforcement and compliance.
Editor: In light of these developments, what advice would you give to readers interested in the Moroccan film industry?
Expert: I’d advise aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals to stay informed about the specifics of this new legislation and actively engage with the CCM. Networking with established professionals and participating in workshops or forums can also help in understanding the landscape better. Moreover, embracing digital platforms for distribution could complement this regulatory framework, allowing filmmakers to reach wider audiences.
Editor: Thank you for this insightful discussion. It’s clear that this new film bill has the potential to transform morocco’s cinematic landscape considerably.
Expert: My pleasure! I look forward to seeing how this unfolds and contributes to the future of moroccan cinema.