The Association of Film Commissioners International (AFCI) has launched the AFCI Global Production Alert--a resource that provides updated information on COVID-19-related policies and restrictions impacting filming locales worldwide. It can be accessed on AFCI’s website here.

The goal is to ensure that film and TV production industry decision-makers have the information they need to make informed decisions during and following the pandemic, while helping film offices prevent misinformation, speculation and confusion about COVID-19’s impact.

“AFCI’s new Global Production Alert provides a one-stop source for COVID-19-related information direct from film offices around the world,” said AFCI president Jess Conoplia. “We’re focused on helping the industry stay up-to-speed throughout each phase of the pandemic, from the current shutdown through the lifting of restrictions and return to production.”

AFCI member film offices are using the Global Production Alert to communicate updated information on how their jurisdictions (cities, states, provinces or nations) are dealing with a range of issues such as:

• restrictions on public gatherings and business activity (including film/TV production),
• restrictions on travel (inbound and domestic),
• availability of key filming locations,
• processing of on-location permit applications, and
• government programs, industry relief funds and other resources to help out-of-work crew members.

 
Listings may also include links to government agencies that deal with relevant issues (e.g., immigration, economic development, public health, etc.).

The Global Production Alert includes entries from a diverse array of film offices on six continents. AFCI expects the number of participating film offices to continue to grow as more locales clarify their response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

AFCI Advisory Board member and HBO SVP of production Jay Roewe said, “AFCI’s Global Production Alert is a key tool for the industry as it waits for the green light to re-commence work on projects around the world. We rely on updates from trusted sources internationally with respect to travel restrictions, location access and industry readiness. Film Commissions are well positioned to provide honest intelligence in this regard.”

Fellow AFCI Advisory Board member Kimberly Rach, who serves as global head of production for YouTube Originals, added, ”While we continue to work together behind-the-scenes to manage productions in hiatus, the ability to connect with film commissions at the click of a finger is key. AFCI’s Global Production Alert is a terrific resource for the latest information on COVID-19 related shooting restrictions, and when we need more information, the organization’s member directory connects us to city, state and national offices worldwide.”

Information in the Global Production Alert is provided directly by AFCI-member film offices, which are encouraged to submit updates as soon as their jurisdiction policies and restrictions change.