Throughout its history, the Asian Film Commissions Network (AFCNet) has been a catalyst for collaboration, policy innovation, and growth in the Asian film industry, adapting to changes while nurturing regional cooperation.
Following a year of groundwork, AFCNet officially launched at BIFCOM, uniting 18 pioneering members from six countries. This diverse coalition, including film commissions from Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Russia, and China, set the stage for unprecedented pan-Asian collaboration in cinema.
AFCNet inaugurated its Asian Film Policy Forum series with "Mapping the Future of Asia-Pacific Film Industry - Sell ASIA." This landmark event sparked a tradition of annual forums, becoming a crucible for industry discourse. Over the next eight years, these gatherings tackled pivotal topics from filming incentives to co-production strategies and technological advancements, shaping the landscape of Asian cinema.
In a visionary partnership with Busan Film Commission, AFCNet co-created the 'ASEAN-ROK Film Leaders Incubator (FLY)' program. Backed by South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ASEAN, this initiative embarked on a transformative journey across Southeast Asia. FLY has since become a cornerstone of AFCNet's commitment to cultivating emerging filmmaking talent, with plans to culminate in Busan, Korea in 2025 after enriching the cinematic landscape of all ASEAN countries.
Marking its first decade, AFCNet boldly expanded its global footprint by participating in major international film markets. This strategic initiative, including presence at Hong Kong Filmart, Marche du Film in Cannes, FOCUS London, and AFCI Location Show, significantly amplified the visibility of Asian filming locations on the world stage.
AFCNet partnered with Busan Film Commission to launch LINK OF CINE-ASIA during the Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM). This innovative program, featuring thought-provoking forums and the interactive AFCNet Square, revolutionized networking within the Asian film industry, creating a vibrant ecosystem for collaboration and idea exchange.
In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, AFCNet demonstrated remarkable agility by pivoting to digital platforms. Through virtual booths and targeted online promotions, the network ensured continued visibility and support for its members, maintaining momentum in a drastically altered global film landscape.
As AFCNet commemorates its 20th anniversary, it co-hosts a landmark global film commissions network event alongside AFCI, EUFCN, and Film USA at the prestigious Marche du Film in Cannes. At the 2024 ACFM, AFCNet hosts the anniversary seminar, "Navigating the Shifting Global Screen Production Sector," which not only celebrates past achievements but also charts a course for the future, exploring the transformative potential of film production and preparing film commissions in the Asian film industry for the next era of innovation.
Over two transformative decades, AFCNet has evolved from a regional alliance into a pivotal force in the global film industry. Its unwavering commitment to fostering collaboration, driving policy development, and nurturing growth has not only elevated Asian cinema but also enriched the global cinematic tapestry.