Abstract

How can the global enthusiasm for Japanese anime be transformed into a sustainable business?

"ANIME" is a common language for 8.3 billion people worldwide. Why are young people around the world so fond of anime now?

"Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba the Movie: Infinity Castle Chapter 1 - Akaza's Return" became a worldwide hit, grossing over 100 billion yen. With simultaneous worldwide distribution, the "enthusiasm" spread from the United States to Spanish-speaking countries and the Global South. The Japanese government has set a target of 20 trillion yen in overseas content sales by 2033, and the global business of anime and IP has now become a huge "Japan-born" economic zone, with trading companies, manufacturers, and even the government learning and taking action.

On the other hand, only about 5% of anime sales return to Japan. The fierce pursuit by Korean webtoons and Chinese anime even foreshadows a repeat of the AV and consumer electronics industry. Amidst all this, "Gundam" is attempting a live-action Hollywood adaptation, and both the government and private sector have begun to take their next steps.

What will the global scene be like in 2025, a turning point? Based on on-site reporting and the latest data, this book unravels the scenario of a global strategy that began with Japanese anime.

Author’s Information

Nikkei Entertainment! Editorial Board Member (Digital Edition).

Born in Chiba Prefecture. Graduated from Waseda University, Faculty of Education, Department of English Language and Literature in 1995. Joined Nikkei BP in the same year. After working on computer magazines and other publications, joined the Nikkei Entertainment! editorial department in 2005. Became deputy editor-in-chief of the magazine in 2010, editor-in-chief from April 2023, editor-in-chief (in charge of digital development) from January 2025, and assumed his current position in April 2026. Specializes in content-related articles such as movies, anime, streaming, manga, and IP, as well as interviews with key figures in companies and data analysis articles. In recent years, he has focused on the global expansion of Japan's entertainment industry and actively conducts on-site reporting.