Rémi Racine, CEO of Behaviour Interactive, warns that language laws and tax credit cuts could force gaming companies to reconsider their future in Quebec. He highlights concerns among employees regarding job security in light of recent changes. Despite these challenges, he intends to keep the company’s headquarters in Montreal, though market competitiveness may push for adjustments in operations.
The CEO of Behaviour Interactive, Rémi Racine, is expressing concerns about the future of video game companies in Quebec due to recent language laws and cuts to tax credits. This has led to a potential reevaluation of their operations amid fears of future relocations. Racine noted that only 25 percent of employees in their Montreal office speak French fluently, prompting worries among allophone staff regarding their job security under the new regulations. He emphasized the necessity of retaining talented individuals in Quebec for the industry’s continued success. Racine further commented on the impact of Quebec’s cutback on multimedia tax credits from 37.5 percent to 27.5 percent over four years, which has significantly affected the competitiveness of the province’s gaming industry. Quebec is known as a key global hub for video game development, generating substantial revenue and employment. However, the reduction in financial incentives raises concerns about the province’s future attractiveness compared to other cities like Toronto, where government support is comparatively stronger. Despite these challenges, Racine affirmed his commitment to keeping Behaviour Interactive’s headquarters in Montreal. The company has experienced growth alongside industry demand fueled by the pandemic but is now facing increased competition and layoffs. Racine alluded to possible structural adjustments to navigate the evolving landscape, emphasizing the importance of long-term investment in Quebec’s gaming sector.
In recent years, Quebec has established itself as a vital center for video game development, ranking among the top five hubs worldwide. The province’s gaming industry experienced a significant boom during the COVID-19 pandemic, with revenues reaching nearly $1.4 billion in 2021. However, recent changes to language laws and cuts in tax incentives have raised concerns among gaming companies about the stability and future of their operations in this region. Behaviour Interactive, a leading player in the industry, has begun to re-evaluate its long-term prospects in light of these developments.
In conclusion, the remarks by Rémi Racine underscore the pressing challenges faced by the gaming industry in Quebec. The implications of new language laws and reduced tax credits threaten to diminish the province’s competitive edge, prompting companies to reconsider their operations. Although Behaviour Interactive remains committed to its Montreal headquarters, the evolving landscape may necessitate structural changes to maintain success in this increasingly competitive environment.
Original Source: montrealgazette.com
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