TORONTO – Ontario’s film and television industry contributed over $946 million to the provincial economy last year, a 41% jump over 2008 totals.
Production increases were seen in all genres, both foreign and domestic, compared to last year’s totals, read a press release by the Ontario Media Development Corporation (OMDC). Total domestic production spending increased by $129.8 million (23.8%), contributing $674.4 million, while total foreign production spending increased by 114%, or $145.5 million.
“We are delighted that Ontario’s film and television industry has come back so strongly in such a globally-competitive environment”, said OMDC president and CEO Karen Thorne-Stone, in the release. “Despite economic challenges and a strong Canadian dollar, Ontario has consistently demonstrated that it has the right mix of government support, financial incentives, world-class infrastructure, superb talent and skills and diverse locations to attract outstanding foreign and domestic productions. Early indications point to 2010 being another strong year.”
