Since 2021, Portugal has been a consistent participant in Shooting Locations Marketplace. Its continued presence as an exhibitor confirms the country’s institutional commitment to the global audiovisual industry and its aim to establish itself as one of the most competitive and sustainable filming destinations in Europe.
Through the Portugal Film Commission and initiatives like Pic Portugal, the country has developed an attraction strategy that combines strong financial incentives, bureaucratic agility, a diversity of landscapes, and a firm commitment to sustainability.
An active policy to attract film productions
Portugal has made cinema a State policy. Its financial incentive system, articulated through the Pic Portugal program, includes a Cash Rebate and a Cash Refund that have been internationally recognized for their competitiveness.
These supports are available to both national and foreign productions, as long as they film in Portuguese territory and work with local or European resources.
In parallel, the Portugal Film Commission has designed specific tools to streamline production processes: practical guides, institutional support, and a location catalogue that covers everything from historical settings to futuristic environments.
Frequently used locations include the churches of Setúbal, the University of Coimbra, the Parque de La Salette, and the iconic Belém Tower.
The country’s flexibility to transform into any setting—from Lisbon to the Azores—has been key to attracting titles such as The Man Who Killed Don Quixote, The Promise, or JOLT.
International presence and sustainability as strategic pillars
Portugal has worked not only from within, but also externally. Its participation in key markets such as the Marché du Film, Conecta Fiction, FEST, and Shooting Locations Marketplace has consolidated its nation-brand as reliable, professional, and sustainable.
At the latest Guadalajara Film Festival, the Portuguese delegation presented 38 productions, including feature films, shorts, and documentaries, demonstrating the vibrancy of its industry.
Moreover, public funding regulations require the inclusion of environmental sustainability plans and provide financial support to obtain certifications such as green shooting.
Productions like A Vida Luminosa and Finisterra are not only examples of this transformation, but were also recognised at the 2025 Sophia Awards, which highlight the quality of Portuguese cinema.
Portugal will return to Shooting Locations Marketplace 2025, on 15 and 16 October in Valladolid.
Its participation reinforces the country’s commitment to building alliances in a business environment that connects location scouts, film commissions, production companies, and audiovisual services.
A perfect opportunity to discover why Portugal remains a reference in international film production.