Shanghai Film Distribution and Exhibition Association (SFDEA) is a non-profit trade body that represents and regulates the film distribution and exhibition sector in Shanghai.
Founded in June 2013, SFDEA currently has over 400 company members, which include over 10 cinema chains and 400 cinemas throughout the city. The Association has been actively introducing different strategies to support the city’s cinema industry growth, including a star-rating system for all Shanghai cinemas as well as the 24-hour cinema concept. It is also known its commitment in setting up professional standards (equipment, customer service, professional knowledge and many more) for the industry.
Since its establishment, the Association has also launched the Shanghai Art Film Federation (SAFF). The network is composed by 4 cinema chains and 10 cinema sites, regularly organises mini festivals to exhibit both local and foreign arthouse films. To date, it has exhibited films from South Korean, Japan, Italy, Germany, Singapore, Spain, the UK, New Zealand, Norway and many other countries.
SAFF under SFDEA represents the most lively and unique foreign film exhibition model in China as an innovative and alternative approach to the quota system. It has enabled Shanghai audience to enjoy both the latest and classic art films from around the world since its inception.
