Key Findings
Figures
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2014–2023: Total investment in Flemish fiction series ranged between €33 million and €91 million, with 2023 setting a record.
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Average budget for fiction series (long episodes): Rose to €4.8 million per series in 2023, with a cost of €837,902 per hour for high-end fiction. Between 2014 and 2023, the average budget increased by over €1 million.
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Contribution from foreign partners: Notably increased since 2016, reaching €15 million in 2023, accounting for 16% of Flemish fiction budgets.
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Feature film budgets: Averaged €2.5 million in 2023, with auteur films at €2 million and mainstream films at €3 million.
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Documentary series budgets: Averaged €817,508 per series in 2023, with broadcaster investments averaging €183,437 between 2020 and 2022. Non-Flemish contributions remained stable at 5–8%.
Statements
Minister of Media Cieltje Van Achter:
“Over the past ten years, our Flemish fiction has faced challenges such as changing viewing habits, new players, and rising costs. Despite this, the quality of our productions remains unparalleled, attracting international players who strengthen our fiction landscape with funding and co-productions. As the Flemish Minister of Media, I remain committed to supporting and promoting these unique stories.”
Bart Temmerman, Secretary-General of the Department of Culture, Youth, and Media:
“Public support is crucial for financing Flemish audiovisual productions in a competitive local and international market. Through the Department of Culture, Youth, and Media, we continue to back measures that strengthen the sector. This study also highlights the importance of Mediapunt. With its policy-relevant research, it contributes to knowledge-driven audiovisual policies.”
Professor Tim Raats, imec-SMIT-VUB:
“Additional contributions from international streamers are becoming increasingly important for the future resilience of Flemish fiction. However, public support, investments by Flemish broadcasters, and the contributions of Flemish service providers remain by far the most significant pillars.”
Contact
imec-SMIT-VUB
Professor Tim Raats
tim.raats@vub.be
0476 51 87 96
Departement Cultuur, Jeugd en Media
Mattijs Deraedt, adjunct-woordvoerder
mattijs.deraedt@vlaanderen.be
02 553 42 89