Indonesia‘s Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) will unveil its inaugural JAFF Market in December. The initiative was announced at the Cannes Film Festival on Thursday.

This new three-day event aims to reshape the Indonesian film industry by fostering networking, innovation and collaboration among various sectors.

Since its start in 2006, JAFF has played a crucial role in nurturing Indonesian cinema, helping many filmmakers rise. “JAFF has consistently strengthened the film ecosystem,” said festival director Ifa Isfansyah.

The JAFF Market will cover 10,000 square meters, featuring over 150 booths with production companies, content creators and service providers. Leading the initiative is experienced producer Linda Gozali, former secretary-general of the Indonesian Film Festival. “We look forward to creating new connections and opportunities,” said Gozali.

The event highlights the rapid post-pandemic recovery of Indonesia’s film industry, which saw local films capture 61% of the market in 2022. The industry fully rebounded in 2023. Despite being the largest market in Southeast Asia, Indonesia’s screen industry lacked a dedicated showcase. JAFF Market aims to fill this gap by becoming Indonesia’s largest film and content marketplace, uniting professionals, emerging talents and key stakeholders.

Developed with support from the country’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Research and Technology, JAFF Market seeks to enhance Indonesia’s international film presence. “JAFF’s initiative will facilitate easier access for the international community,” said Ahmad Mahendra, director of film, music and media at the Ministry.

Indonesia’s screen industry, with an economic impact of over $8 trillion and employing 387,000 people, per data provided by JAFF, is poised for further growth. JAFF Market’s various programs – including a project market led by producer Meiske Taurisia – aims to help emerging filmmakers connect with industry professionals to develop high-quality projects. Taurisia has been involved in organizing the LOCK Full Circle Lab, alongside Yulia Evina Bhara, Muhammad Zaidy and Vivian Idris.

Filmmaker Angga Sasongko, who is the CEO of the Visinema Group, and Falcon Pictures’ H.B. Naveen both emphasize JAFF Market’s potential to be a central hub for the Indonesian film industry. “It’s fitting for Indonesia to showcase its industrial strength,” said Naveen.

JAFF Market takes place Dec. 3-5 at the Jogja Expo Center in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The film festival runs Nov. 30-Dec. 7.

Source By Variety