Industry

Berlinale and South Africa have signed the Country in Focus agreement for 2027, confirming South Africa as the Country in Focus for the 2027 edition of the European Film Market (EFM).
South Africa will be showcased as a key international film territory at EFM 2027, reflecting its position as one of Africa’s most globally integrated and diversified production hubs. The country’s film industry combines strong creative output with established production infrastructure, experienced crews, competitive services and a wide range of filming locations, positioning it as a strategic partner for global film and television production.

“South Africa’s designation as the European Film Market’s ‘Country in Focus’ for 2027 reflects both its longstanding relationship with the Berlinale and the extraordinary vitality of its film industry. South African cinema brings together powerful storytelling, remarkable creative voices and a strong international outlook. We are excited to shine a spotlight on a film culture that continues to shape global conversations and to create new opportunities for collaboration between South African and international partners at the EFM”, says Festival Director Tricia Tuttle.

The country continues to attract international productions due to its mix of skilled talent, production services, diverse landscapes, efficient logistics and favourable filming conditions. These factors have strengthened its role as a competitive global production destination.

“The European Film Market’s focus on South Africa highlights a dynamic, globally competitive film industry that offers diverse storytelling, strong co-production opportunities and a strategic gateway for international partners seeking to engage with African markets”, says Tanja Meissner, Director Berlinale Pro. “At the EFM, cultural visibility meets concrete market potential. The programme will connect South African talent, projects and companies with international buyers, financiers, producers and platforms, while also opening new pathways for long-term collaboration.”

South Africa’s film industry is also recognised for its culturally rooted and socially engaged storytelling, drawing from the country’s history and contemporary realities. “This is more than recognition, it is an invitation. South Africa brings to the European Film Market an exceptional combination of creative talent, production capability and stories drawn from one of the world's most compelling cultural landscapes. We are open for collaboration, co-production and investment and we are confident that those who engage with our industry at the Berlinale will leave with a deeper appreciation of what South Africa offers as a creative and commercial partner. From U-Carmen eKhayelitsha to The Heart Is a Muscle, the world is experiencing authentic South African storytelling in all its layers. Our commitment as government is to ensure that the working relations and co-productions foster growth for all involved. Furthermore, addressing the challenges that have affected our filmmakers’ ability to produce at scale is being addressed”, says Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie.
“This moment is a great testament to the growth of the South African film industry. This opportunity reflects many years of effort by the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) team and we are thrilled to elevate the deserving South African filmmakers. It comes at such an opportune time where storytelling through film is being tested by socio-economic challenges that need to be told in ways that balance truth and hope. This European Film Market of the Berlinale will give our filmmakers the platform to showcase the diversity of our nation and connect our stories to those of the global community. The NFVF will continue to ensure that South African filmmakers who produce films which resonate globally, have access to platforms such as the Berlinale,” adds Onke Dumeko, Acting CEO of the NFVF.