A forum that brought together representatives and leading professionals from the audiovisual sector to discuss the region’s potential as a hub for international film and television productions, while exploring new opportunities for collaboration between Madrid- and U.S.-based companies.
The event was closed by the Regional Minister for Culture, Tourism and Sport, Mariano de Paco Serrano, at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts of San Fernando. It was attended by representatives of the leading audiovisual companies established in the Madrid region and members of the American Chamber of Commerce in Spain (AmChamSpain).
In his closing remarks, the Regional Minister noted that the conference coincides with the launch of the Regional Government’s Strategic Plan for the Audiovisual Industry. “Backed by €40 million through 2029, this initiative is designed to strengthen the competitiveness and international profile of Madrid’s audiovisual sector, support its growth, and reinforce its contribution to the regional economy,” he said.
Organised jointly by the American Chamber of Commerce in Spain and the Regional Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Sport, the conference addressed key issues such as attracting international productions, fostering co-productions between Spanish and U.S. companies, and strengthening production and post-production infrastructure.
The programme featured several panel discussions with the participation of, among others, Luis Socías, CEO of Invest in Madrid; Xiomara García, General Coordinator of Film Madrid Region; María Contreras of MGM Studios Spain; and Sofía Fábregas of The Walt Disney Company.
A 10% increase in film and television productions
The Madrid region recorded a 10% increase in film and television productions in 2025, hosting more than 2,100 shoots. It served as the location for major international productions such as Day Drinker, starring Johnny Depp and Penélope Cruz and filmed in Boadilla del Monte, San Lorenzo de El Escorial and Villamanta, as well as the fourth season of The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon.
The audiovisual industry contributes 2.6% of the Madrid region’s GDP and comprises around 3,500 companies, generating more than 29,700 direct jobs. Its diverse business ecosystem, combined with a unique cultural and natural heritage, makes the region a versatile and competitive filming destination alongside major European production hubs such as Berlin, Paris and Rome. The Regional Government is committed to protecting, facilitating and promoting audiovisual productions by offering a wide variety of filming locations, sound stages, animation studios and visual effects facilities.