The mismanagement of the Film and TV Incentive Scheme has left South Africa’s creative economy on life support. The Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition's (DTIC) failure to convene adjudication meetings and approve applications has spearheaded an economic and human catastrophe. Productions have stalled, tens of thousands of workers across the entire value chain have lost income, and the industry has contracted by nearly 50%.

For decades, South Africa’s vibrant film industry has not only been a beacon of rich cultural expression but also a significant economic contributor, drawing in international productions, creating jobs, and showcasing South African talent on a global stage. However, the current inactivity and mismanagement within the DTIC is threatening to obliterate all this progress at an alarming rate.

We are witnessing a bleak reality: skilled workers, from actors to crew members, are hemorrhaging from the industry due to lack of work, and emerging talents are discouraged from pursuing careers in film. This not only affects the livelihood of individuals but also threatens the collapse of local businesses reliant on the film sector. From caterers to equipment rental companies, the ripple effect is devastating, placing countless livelihoods in jeopardy.

Concrete action is necessary to resuscitate this pivotal sector and save thousands of jobs. The immediate restructuring of the Film and TV Incentive Scheme must be prioritized. We demand that the DTIC speeds up the adjudication process and approvals. By doing so, productions can be reignited, and the industry can resume its role as a critical driver of economic growth and cultural production.

This petition urgently calls on Mr. Parks Tau, Minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, to take immediate measures to amend the current operations within the DTIC concerning the Film and TV Incentive Scheme. The industry’s stability and future growth hang in the balance, and action is needed now more than ever to prevent a total collapse and to secure the future of South African film.

Join us in calling for the rescue of the South African film industry by signing this petition. Your support is crucial for bringing about the much-needed changes that can save jobs, preserve South Africa's creative spirit, and propel our film sector to new heights. Let us ensure that our stories continue to be told and our storytellers get the support they deserve. Sign the petition now to make a difference.