A major step toward deeper international collaboration in Indian cinema was marked at IFFI 2025 in Goa, where the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) and the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding. The MoU reflects a shared commitment to expanding the global reach of Indian cinema and creating structured, long term opportunities for filmmakers across borders.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of IFFI 2025, India’s premier international film festival, reinforcing the importance of institutional collaboration in today’s global film ecosystem.
A Strategic Partnership Between Two Influential Film Platforms
IFFM has established itself as a key international platform for showcasing Indian cinema in Australia, playing an important role in connecting Indian storytellers with global audiences. IFFI, organised by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, remains the country’s most significant international film festival, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles from around the world.
By signing this MoU at IFFI 2025, both festivals signalled a move toward sustained engagement rather than one off collaborations. The partnership is designed to ensure continuity, enabling films, filmmakers, and creative conversations to travel more seamlessly between India and international markets.
What the IFFM–IFFI MoU Covers
The Memorandum of Understanding outlines a broad framework of collaboration focused on both creative and industry development. Key areas include:
- Curated exchange of film programmes between IFFM and IFFI
- Joint panels, discussions, and industry conversations at both festivals
- International exposure opportunities for films premiered or showcased at IFFI through IFFM platforms
- Collaborative initiatives to support emerging filmmakers and independent voices
- Strengthening cultural dialogue between Indian and Australian film communities
The MoU is intended to be practical and outcome driven, creating real opportunities rather than remaining a symbolic association.
Supporting Filmmakers Beyond Screenings
A core focus of the IFFM–IFFI collaboration is filmmaker development. The agreement recognises that meaningful support extends beyond awards and screenings. Access to mentorship, industry networks, and global conversations is essential for filmmakers navigating an increasingly interconnected cinema landscape.
Through shared masterclasses, curated industry sessions, and collaborative forums, the MoU aims to equip filmmakers with the tools and insights needed to engage with international audiences while remaining rooted in authentic storytelling.
Why This Collaboration Matters Now
Indian cinema is witnessing growing global interest, with stories travelling across languages, cultures, and platforms. In this context, partnerships like the one between IFFM and IFFI are crucial. They help formalise access, encourage continuity, and create ecosystems where filmmakers are supported both creatively and structurally.
By aligning their platforms, IFFM and IFFI strengthen not just festival programming but the larger framework that allows Indian cinema to thrive internationally.
Looking Ahead
The signing of the MoU at IFFI 2025 marks the beginning of a new phase of collaboration between two important film institutions. As joint initiatives roll out in the coming years, the partnership is expected to widen opportunities for filmmakers, deepen cross cultural exchange, and further enhance the global visibility of Indian cinema.
More than an agreement on paper, the IFFM–IFFI MoU represents a shared belief in cinema as a cultural bridge and a living dialogue that grows through collaboration.
