Having a presence in China, CineWaves Films has opened up new markets and opportunities for the Saudi and Arab film industry.
CineWaves Films, a film distribution company based in Saudi Arabia, has announced the establishment of its office in China, marking it as the first Arab cultural entity to have a physical presence in the world’s largest film market. This launch was announced during the Arab-Chinese Animation Forum and is part of the company’s strategy for global expansion, with the aim of creating opportunities for Saudi films on an international scale, according to a report by Arab News.
The official announcement was made by Faisal Baltyuor, the founder and CEO of CineWaves Films, and Zha Yindong, the vice-mayor of Suzhou, in the presence of Chinese government representatives and figures from the cultural sector.
CineWaves Films has a wide international presence. It co-produced the Sudanese film Goodbye Julia, directed by Mohamed Kordofani, which competed in the Uncertain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival as the first Sudanese film and received the Freedom Award.
Additionally, the company has collaborated with Film Clinic for the distribution of Arab films in Saudi Arabia, helping bring critically acclaimed titles like The Man Who Sold His Skin, You Will Die at Twenty, Yomeddine, and 19 B, among others to audiences in the region.
Speaking about the new establishment, Feng Qian, CEO of Ori Group, said: “Cinewaves Films Chinese Office is a significant milestone in international cultural cooperation after the restoration of the Saudi film industry. This will help to advance Sino-Arab development in the cultural and audio-visual industry. The office will carry out business in China in the fields of financing, co-production, distribution, (and) talent cultivation. The office will also provide services to other cultural enterprises and organisations in the Arab region to expand the network in China.”
Faisal Baltyuor added: “Launching our office in China, the largest film market in the world, is part of our ongoing commitment to broaden the international reach of Saudi films and foster cultural exchange with global markets. The establishment of our presence in China is a significant step for the Saudi and Arab film industry, opening up new opportunities and audiences.”
He added: “Through our partnership with Ori Group, we will not only participate in the production of Chinese animation films but also encourage them to consider the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for shooting and to facilitate the distribution of these films across the Arab world. What is happening now marks a significant milestone for Saudi cinema and requires concerted efforts and unwavering focus from all stakeholders.”
