Japan just made a bold move to stay in the global production game—extending its eye-popping 50% cash rebate through January 2026.

The program, run by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in partnership with VIPO and the Japan Film Commission, was responsible for attracting high-profile projects like Monarch: Legacy of Monsters (Season 2) for Apple TV+. It will now continue to reward qualifying international productions with up to JPY1 billion (≈ $6.6 million USD) in rebates on eligible production and post costs incurred inside Japan.

To qualify, projects must meet at least one of the following:

•Spend more than JPY500 million (≈ $3.3M USD) directly in Japan

•Have a total production budget over JPY1 billion (≈ $6.6M USD), with at least JPY200 million (≈ $1.3M USD) spent locally

•Be distributed in 10+ countries and spend JPY200 million in Japan

Important to note: foreign producers can’t apply directly. Applications must be submitted through a Japanese production company or consortium, with the first of four 2025 submission windows now open through April 10.

Aside from spending thresholds, productions must also commit to using Japanese crews, locations, and studios—and agree to help promote Japanese filming destinations globally. There’s even a discretionary clause allowing projects that fall short of the financials to still qualify if they deliver significant economic or industry impact.

VIPO will process applications, while the Japan Film Commission will coordinate the program. But here’s the catch: once the program’s budget is depleted, it’s game over—no matter how many application rounds remain.