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Cyprus Launches Competition For Feature Film Production Funding

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

July 15, 2024

The South-Eastern Europe Cinema Network (SEECN) has unveiled an exciting opportunity for filmmakers through a competition aimed at funding production plans for feature films among its member countries. Announced by the Cyprus Ministry of Culture’s Department of Contemporary Culture, this initiative seeks to support and enhance the creative output of the regional film industry.

Funding Details and Goals

The SEECN competition offers substantial financial support, with funding amounts ranging from €6,000 to €10,000, contingent on the network’s financial capacity. The goal is to boost collaborative projects that promote cultural exchange and innovation in cinema. This funding aims to provide a significant boost to filmmakers, helping them bring their creative visions to life and reach a broader audience.

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Eligibility Criteria

The competition targets feature films with a minimum runtime of 70 minutes, intended for theatrical release. To qualify, proposals must be co-productions involving at least two producers from the network’s member states, which include Cyprus, Greece, Serbia, Albania, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Romania, and Bulgaria. This requirement encourages cross-border collaboration, fostering a spirit of cooperation and shared cultural experiences.

Submission Requirements

Applicants must submit detailed proposals by 16 September 2024. Each submission should include:

A synopsis of the film
An extended summary
The full screenplay in both English and Greek
Additional documentation in English

Two identical, bound copies of the complete production folder are required for the application to be considered. The proposals will be meticulously reviewed at the network’s General Assembly meeting scheduled for November 2024.

Selection Criteria and Operation

The selection criteria focus on the project’s potential to contribute to the cinematic landscape, its cultural relevance, and the feasibility of the production plan. The Department of Contemporary Culture will provide additional information and support to applicants. Interested parties can contact the department via phone or email and access detailed guidelines and application forms on the Ministry of Culture‘s website.

Importance of the Initiative

This competition underscores the SEECN’s commitment to fostering cinematic excellence and supporting filmmakers in the region. By providing financial assistance and encouraging international co-productions, the initiative aims to elevate the standard of filmmaking and promote cultural dialogue through the arts.

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Competition Authority Launches Comprehensive Review of ExxonMobil Cyprus Acquisition

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

September 16, 2025

Investigation Initiated Over Strategic Acquisition

The Competition Protection Authority has commenced a thorough investigation into the acquisition of ExxonMobil Cyprus Limited’s share capital by Petrolina Holdings Public Ltd through Med Energywise Ltd. This inquiry was formally initiated following a session held on 10 September 2025, after an in-depth review of the pertinent report by the Authority’s Service.

Concerns Over Market Compatibility

Authorities have expressed serious concerns regarding the compatibility of the transaction with established competitive practices. The review indicates that the acquisition may affect several critical petroleum markets, both horizontally and vertically, thereby raising the potential for adverse impacts on market dynamics.

Horizontal Market Dynamics

On the horizontal front, potential effects have been identified in the import market for petroleum products, as well as in both wholesale and retail distribution channels of these products. The consolidation is believed to increase the risk of price rises and coordinated actions, given the direct competitive proximity between Petrolina and ExxonMobil.

Vertical and Adjacent Market Implications

Vertical aspects of the merger are also under close scrutiny. The new entity could restrict competitors’ access to critical infrastructure such as storage facilities, supply channels, and customer bases. These restrictions could further affect the onshore distribution of fuels, the wholesale market for lubricants, and specialized technical services connected with fuel station operations.

Local Market Considerations

Particular attention is being paid to the potential concentration in the retail fuel market. The investigation suggests that a reduced competitive landscape within a four-kilometer radius of the companies’ fuel stations could lead to diminished local competition, adversely impacting consumer prices and options.

Next Steps and Industry Impact

The Competition Protection Authority, which reached a unanimous decision to pursue a full investigation, remains open to submissions from parties that might be affected by this transaction, as mandated by current legislation. A final decision is expected within four months upon receipt of all necessary evidence, potentially setting a significant precedent for future market consolidation cases in the energy sector.