Industry leaders urged consideration amid post-COVID cinema operational surge

The Ministry of Information reports that the number of operational cinemas has increased to 90 in the post-COVID-19 period.
Prior to the COVID-19 period, there were 182 cinemas. Following the outbreak, only 36 cinemas were in operation. Currently, there are 90 cinemas functioning. However, despite being sold to private owners with the agreement that they would exclusively show films, several of these cinemas have yet to reopen.
Union Minister of Information U Maung Maung Ohn, in a meeting with cinema proprietors and film producers in Yangon, urged the consideration of all parties’ interests. He highlighted the importance of film producers being able to showcase their films in cinemas to recoup their investments.
Furthermore, the Minister stressed that cinema owners should not exert pressure on producers regarding the types of films to be shown. Producers, on their part, should focus on creating films that genuinely attract audiences.
Loans have been provided, and the loan repayment period has been extended to assist cinema owners and producers in recovering from the economic impact of COVID-19. — TWA/MKKS