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At Iberseries & Platino Industria 2025, the Italian audiovisual sector outlined a renewed international vision: forging closer ties with Spain and the wider Ibero-American region through targeted co-production initiatives. The announcement came during a panel moderated by Liz Unamo, TV & Advertising Editor at PRODU, which brought together institutional leaders and independent producers.

Among the speakers were Roberto Stabile (Cinecittà/General Directorate for Cinema and Audiovisual), Gianni Russo (CEO & Producer, Piano B), Valeria Beraldo (Head of Co-Productions and Film Funding, Indiana Productions), and Giovanni Cova (President, QMI).

Roberto Stabile presented the creation of a new co-production fund designed to strengthen collaboration with producers in Spain, Portugal, and Latin America. This mechanism follows Italy’s recent withdrawal from the Ibermedia program, announced in Cannes, and seeks to channel the know-how acquired over years of participation.“We have decided that from 2025 we will launch professional encounters between Italian and Spanish producers, with the goal of working together across Latin America. With this new fund, we aim to build meaningful collaborations between Italy, Spain, and the Ibero-American world,” said Stabile.

He also pointed out a long-standing gap: “Italy has historically co-produced with Germany and France, but very little with Spain, despite our strong cultural ties. There are many stories waiting to be told together.”

Valeria Beraldo emphasized that international partnerships have always been central to Indiana Productions: “Our very first film was a co-production with Brazil, and our latest series was made with the UK. Strengthening this approach with Spain and Latin America is essential.” She also revealed that Indiana is currently developing a drama based on real events in Italy with strong narrative links to Spain and Argentina.

Gianni Russo, from Piano B, described Spain as a natural gateway to Latin America, highlighting the region’s cultural affinity and financing opportunities available in Italy, including regional funds.

Looking at future trends, Giovanni Cova of QMI noted the growing role of brands as active players in content creation.“Brands are no longer limiting themselves to advertising. Many want to position themselves as storytellers, and we’re seeing broadcasters and streamers open to these partnerships, even co-investing in shows and series,” he explained.