The “CNEX Chinese Doc Forum” (CCDF) is a platform for the documentary film industry that adopts the pitching session model commonly seen in international documentary film festivals. It aims to facilitate communication between Chinese documentary filmmakers and international television networks or funds, fostering creative collaboration and potential distribution opportunities. In recent years, international media has shown great interest and attention towards topics related to the Chinese society. However, due to language and cultural barriers, many independent Chinese directors find it difficult to access the existing international documentary film pitching systems. We have witnessed numerous excellent Chinese-language documentaries that remain untapped in the international market, not only due to poor distribution channels in the later stages but also due to a lack of understanding and attempt to explore the international market during the early stages of production.

Since 2010, CNEX has been organizing the “CNEX Chinese Doc Forum” annually. Each year, they select up to 20 documentary project proposals from hundreds of submissions and invite renowned international professionals from the documentary industry to participate in the event. Past attendees include representatives from prestigious organizations such as Sundance (USA), Sunny Side of the Doc (France), BBC (UK), Arte (France), NDR/ARD (Germany), DR TV (Denmark), NHK (Japan), Hot Docs (Canada), Discovery Asia Pacific, National Geographic Channel, Sheffield (UK), Phoenix TV, Tencent, iQiyi, Youku, Public Television Service, and DaAi TV, among others. Over the years, selected project proposals have successfully entered into negotiations and deals with international broadcasters and buyers.

This year, building on the achievements of the past editions, CNEX is organizing the 15th edition of the “CNEX Chinese Doc Forum.” They are seeking a wide range of documentary project proposals related to the Chinese community and will select proposals to participate in the program, offering training sessions and opportunities for formal pitching activities.