South Africa has been selected as the “Country in Focus” for the 77th Berlinale European Film Market in 2027, highlighting the country’s expanding film industry and its growing role in global creative collaboration.
South Africa has been officially announced as the “Country in Focus” for the 77th edition of the Berlinale European Film Market, scheduled to take place from 10 to 16 February 2027 in Berlin, Germany.
The announcement was made at a signing ceremony attended by representatives from South Africa’s Department of Sport, Arts and Culture and officials from the Berlinale.
Dr. Cynthia Khumalo, Director-General, Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, Republic of South Africa, said the designation holds major significance for the country’s film industry and national development. She noted that, given South Africa’s socio-economic challenges and global positioning, the recognition will provide valuable opportunities for filmmakers and showcase the country’s diverse storytelling landscape.
Ms. Tricia Tuttle, Festival Director, Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale), highlighted South Africa’s long-standing relationship with the festival. She said the selection reflects the vitality of South Africa’s film industry and its strong creative voice, adding that the programme will help deepen international collaboration and industry engagement.
South Africa’s film industry has been recognised as globally competitive, supported by experienced crews, diverse locations, and strong production infrastructure. The country continues to attract international productions due to its mix of urban centres, natural landscapes, and well-developed filming facilities.
A major milestone in South African cinema at the Berlinale came in 2005 when U-Carmen eKhayelitsha became the first South African film to win the Golden Bear, marking a historic moment in its relationship with the festival.
Mr. Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Republic of South Africa, said the recognition represents an important opportunity to expand co-productions, investment, and global partnerships. He added that South Africa is committed to addressing challenges in the film sector while strengthening international collaboration and industry growth.
Mr. Onke Dumeko, Acting Chief Executive Officer, National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), Republic of South Africa, described the announcement as a major milestone for South African cinema. He said it reflects years of industry development and will help elevate local filmmakers by connecting them with global platforms and audiences.
The National Film and Video Foundation said the initiative will strengthen access to international markets and support South African filmmakers whose work resonates globally.
Since its launch in 2017, the Berlinale European Film Market “Country in Focus” initiative has showcased selected global film industries, offering insights into their creative sectors while encouraging international cooperation. Previous focus countries have included Mexico, Canada, Norway, Chile, Italy, Spain, Morocco, and others.
The 2027 edition is expected to place South Africa at the centre of global film industry engagement, creating new opportunities for co-production, distribution, investment, and cultural exchange across film, television, animation, and emerging media.
Source: Department of International Relations and Cooperation, South Africa
