BJIFF · Market | Struggling to Secure Overseas Distribution? The BJIFF Market Has You Covered!
In recent years, Chinese-language films have steadily gained traction in international markets, drawing growing attention from global audiences and sparking a gradual rise in interest. However, many high-quality masterpieces have yet to truly reach viewers abroad, while content worthy of repeated viewing and deeper appreciation still awaits the opportunity to be discovered by overseas markets.
The Beijing Film Market of the Beijing International Film Festival (BJIFF) provides precisely such an opportunity. An increasing number of international curators, production companies, and distribution firms are able to consistently and systematically observe the evolution of Chinese-language films through this platform. It is after years of accumulation that the Beijing Film Market of the 16th BJIFF has meticulously designed the "Light Boat Plan" for Chinese-language films, launching for the first time a systematic recruitment initiative to promote Chinese films overseas!
The "Light Boat Project" will invite submissions from producers, distributors, and film companies nationwide, seeking Chinese-language feature film projects with potential in overseas markets. Whether a film has already been completed or is still in post-production, as long as it carries the aspiration to reach international audiences, it will have a unique opportunity to be showcased at the BJIFF. Selected projects will be included in the 16th BJIFF's Overseas Distribution Promotion Collection and, during the festival, will be distributed to professional groups such as international distribution companies and curators with potential for collaboration. Applicants can also choose whether to participate in the Beijing Film Market's "Chinese-Language Film Promotion" event. This session will centrally showcase the distinctive charm of Chinese-language film projects to global film and television buyers, providing each film with a dedicated platform to fully narrate its story and value.
Films with exceptional overseas potential will receive promotional opportunities at international film festivals such as Cannes and Berlin, as well as film events in regions like Hong Kong, China. If clear purchase intentions arise during the promotion process, project owners will receive assistance in connecting with international distribution companies, streaming platforms, and television broadcasters. At the same time, the "Light Boat Plan" will also provide professional consultation support for international distribution and film festival submissions, including strategic advice for competition and screening sections at international film festivals, helping films identify their positioning and plan effectively for global distribution.
Application Requirements:
1. The project must hold (or be scheduled to obtain by the first half of 2026) the "Dragon Seal" (China's Film Public Screening Permit).
2. The film must have been released/streamed or be scheduled for release/streaming in 2026.
3. Eligible project types include feature-length contents such as theatrical films and online movies.
4. Submissions require a completed film, rough cut, or work-in-progress currently in post-production.
Required Submission Materials:
1. Completed project application form
2. Promotional materials (posters, stills, trailer, etc.)
3. Sample footage with Chinese and English subtitles
To apply, visit the official link via the "Read More" button for full details and registration. Download and complete the application form at the bottom of the page. If you also wish to participate in the "Chinese-Language Film Promotion" event at the BJIFF's Beijing Film Market, please be sure to select the corresponding option in the form. After completing the form, send it via email to internationallounge@bjiff.com. A reply email confirming receipt will serve as official acknowledgment of successful submission.
