The Federation of Belgian Cinemas (FCB) has called on future governments to update the outdated legislation governing their industry.
The current legislative framework has remained the same since 1963, when film reels and ticket rolls were still in use. Thierry Laermans, the Secretary-General of the FCB, highlighted the challenges in adhering to this outdated law.
On Friday, the FCB issued a text listing seven demands ahead of the upcoming elections. The federation will be closely monitoring the formation of future governing bodies, as the industry straddles between economics and culture, making it reliant on both federal and regional levels of governance.
Laermans emphasised Belgian cinema's vital role in the national economy, generating annual revenue of over €220 million and supporting more than 1,200 jobs with a wage bill of around €30 million. Furthermore, the industry provides over 18 million Belgians with access to audiovisual culture each year.
The industry is also demanding a reform of specific tax burdens, financial support for health prevention improvements in cinemas and robust legislation against piracy. Moreover, it seeks legislation against the "unfair competition" from cultural centres showing certain films.
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The FCB stressed that the sector is financially vulnerable due to the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and rising energy costs, among other reasons.
The federation, which represents the interests of cinema operators in Belgium from large chains to small independents and art house theatres, has 31 members. These members account for the reception of over 75% of cinema-goers in Belgium each year.
