Kochi: The Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce has firmly opposed the State government’s proposed increase in cinema ticket prices, warning that the move could further strain an industry already grappling with financial losses. In a formal letter to the government, the Chamber urged authorities not to implement the recommendation made by a government-appointed committee that suggested revising service charges and cess, including a ₹5 to ₹15 hike in ticket rates.
While the Finance Minister had earlier assured that discussions would be held with film industry stakeholders before taking a final call, the Film Chamber has made its stand clear — the hike is unacceptable. Industry leaders pointed out that welfare activities in the cultural sector are currently funded through the ₹3 collected from each ticket, and increasing this burden would unfairly target the cinema sector. They also reiterated concerns over what they describe as double taxation and stressed that revenue generation should not rely solely on the struggling film industry. With theatres and producers still recovering from setbacks, stakeholders fear that higher ticket prices could deter audiences and deliver another blow to Kerala’s cinema ecosystem.
