AFCNet, the Asian Film Commissions Network, has announced the launch of the first Asia Pacific Film Industry Policy Forum at its annual General Assembly yesterday.

The three-day forum which will be held from October 11-13 during BIFCOM 2008 (in conjunction with Pusan 's Asian Film Market) will provide a much-needed platform for AFCNet members, government policymakers as well as foreign producers who are keen to film in Asia.

'It's the first such forum of its kind for the film industry in Asia. We'll make use of this opportunity to address various issues to make Asia a more attractive international shooting destination,' said Julie Kim, project manager of the AFCNet Secretariat in Busan.

'One main issue is Asia 's lack of production incentives, compared to North America and Europe. Australia [a new AFCNet member since this year] is the only Asian country which offers tax incentives. We hope to learn from them and share their experience to member countries,' she added.

Jeju Film Commission from Korea officially became an AFCNet member at yesterday's General Assembly, bringing the total number of members to 36.

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