Italy’s Directorate-General for Cinema and Audiovisual at the Culture Ministry has rescinded €66 million in previously granted film production tax credits after extensive verification procedures. Culture Undersecretary Lucia Borgonzoni announced the measure, revealing the order signed by Nicola Borrelli stems from a sweeping inspection campaign.
The investigation, conducted alongside the Finance Police, scrutinized hundreds of audiovisual projects to verify proper use of public funds supporting Italy’s film industry. “Audits of formally compliant applications involved cross-checks and in-depth document analysis, confirming the tax benefits were unjustified,” Borgonzoni stated.
Beyond revoking existing credits, authorities rejected an additional €22 million in pending tax credit requests. The crackdown forms part of broader reforms to prevent misuse of public resources in a system “historically vulnerable to abuse,” according to the ministry.
“Prioritizing transparency and legality, this years-long effort intensified recently to ensure support reaches truly deserving companies,” Borgonzoni emphasized. Enhanced inspections will continue with expanded staff and reinforced controls to guarantee efficient, equitable use of public funds, ultimately “strengthening the competitiveness and integrity of Italy’s audiovisual sector.”