The UK and South Africa have announced signed a new television agreement which will strengthen ties between both broadcast industries, encourage the sharing of knowledge and ideas and drive economic growth through television co-production.

The terms of the agreement, which builds on the existing Film Co-production Treaty, were negotiated by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) and the BFI, with the Department for Arts and Culture for the Republic of South Africa.

Television co-productions that qualify under the terms of the Treaty will be able to access the benefits of national status in each country. In South Africa these include a higher rate production rebate, while in the UK qualifying television co-productions will be able to access the UK’s High-End Television Tax Relief, the Animation Television Tax Relief or the Children’s Television Tax Relief.

Ed Vaizey, Culture Minister said: “British television production is a tremendous success story, but we need to make sure the UK remains well placed to take advantage of the opportunities that come through international collaboration. This new deal enhances our already strong relationship with South Africa and will help television production companies in both countries realize the benefits that come with co-production.”

Amanda Nevill, BFI CEO said: “The UK’s TV production sector is stronger than ever and its quality, creativity and originality is admired all over the world. The inclusion of television in the existing, successful film Co-production Treaty represents exciting new opportunities for growth and collaboration between the UK and South Africa and will be of great mutual benefit to both countries.”

Max Rumney, Deputy Chief Executive of Pact, said: “There is well-established collaboration between UK and South African TV production companies. Therefore, it’s important to the independent production sector that these relationships are strengthened and formalized, and Pact’s members look forward to creating more coproduction opportunities with our South African counterparts.”