Government support for the games industry
Computer games captivate millions of people. At Gamescom, Minister Bär promised more backing for German developers.
Cologne (dpa) – Germany’s games industry can look forward to increased government support. During her visit to the Cologne trade fair Gamescom, Gamescom, Federal Research Minister Dorothee Bär stressed that work was “in full swing” on introducing tax incentives. Under such a system, games developers would be able to claim certain costs and pay less tax – a move designed to spur investment. The main beneficiaries would be companies that also pay their taxes in Germany.
To boost Germany’s share of the fast-growing global games market, the federal government is also increasing its direct funding. Alongside the planned tax relief, this year will see 88 million euros in grants distributed, rising to 125 million euros next year.
The industry has reacted with relief. Hendrik Lesser of Munich-based Remote Control Productions sees the increase in funding as a sign “that in this legislative period the issue is being taken more seriously than ever before.”