The anime market involves the production and distribution of animated films and television shows that are inspired by Japanese manga comics and graphic novels. Anime is composed of hand-drawn and computer animation techniques and is considered a distinct art form. Popular anime IPs include Pokémon, Dragon Ball, Attack on Titan, Demon Slayer and Naruto.
These shows typically follow archetypal character tropes and stories of adventure, action and romance. With the rise of virtual reality and metaverse platforms, gaming developers are increasingly embedding immersive anime experiences within their games. Titles like Garena Free Fire, Valorant and Roblox now allow fans to take on the roles of their favorite anime characters and battle against friends in virtual environments that resemble anime worlds.
The global anime market is estimated to be valued at US$ 37.31 million in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 7.8% over the forecast period 2024 to 2031, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Dynamics
One of the key drivers for the Anime Market is the rising popularity of virtual gaming experiences among fans. As mentioned in the heading, major gaming developers are actively collaborating with anime rights holders to build interactive gaming modes and metaverse platforms centered around popular anime IPs. This allows hardcore fans to live out their anime fantasies in a digital context. For example, players on Roblox can explore open world maps from Demon Slayer or Naruto while battling enemies and teaming up with other users portraying characters. The immersive nature of such virtual experiences is helping to onboard new generations of anime enthusiasts beyond the traditional TV and film formats. Furthermore, the collaboration also enables gaming studios and anime rights holders to cross-promote each other’s brands and expand their consumer bases.
Segment Analysis
The global Anime Market is primarily segmented into TV anime, movie, video, internet distribution, merchandise and music. Among these, the TV anime segment dominated the market and accounted for more than 45% share in 2024 owing to rising popularity of various new anime TV series. High demand for various new Japanese anime TV series such as Naruto, Dragonball, Deathnote and others have been driving this segment.
PEST Analysis
Political: The anime industry receives government support for its cultural value in Japan. However, overly strict content regulations can hinder the themes explored.
Economic: A growing global fanbase is expanding the economic opportunities for the anime industry. Japan’s strong animation sector contributes to economic growth and cultural exports. However, economic turmoil could impact discretionary spending on anime.
Social: Anime appeals to people worldwide due to its fun and escapist entertainment. However, some contents face social disapproval due to sensitive themes. Growing emphasis on diversity and inclusion could influence anime storylines.
Technological: Advances in animation technology have enhanced visual experiences. Internet streaming has boosted accessibility and popularity of anime globally. This has given rise to new distribution channels and business models for the industry.
Key Takeaways
The global Anime Market Demand is expected to witness high growth in the forecast period supported by rising fanbase worldwide and availability of high quality content across various devices and mediums.
Regional analysis: The anime market in Asia Pacific dominates with more than 35% share majorly driven by Japan. Strong production capabilities, cultural influence and high domestic demand have made Japan the centre of global anime industry. China followed by other Southeast Asian countries are other major anime markets in the region growing at a rapid pace.
Key players operating in the anime market includes Netflix, Viz media, Madman Entertainment, Toei animation. Netflix has emerged as the leading global OTT platform for anime through its large content library and strategic partnerships. Viz media and Madman entertainment are among the top license holders and distributors of Japanese anime content in international regions through partnerships, home video and theatrical releases. Toei animation is one of the prominent Japanese animation studios producing popular franchises such as Dragonball, One piece and others.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
About Author - Ravina Pandya
Ravina Pandya, Content Writer, has a strong foothold in the market research industry. She specializes in writing well-researched articles from different industries, including food and beverages, information and technology, healthcare, chemical and materials, etc. With an MBA in E-commerce, she has an expertise in SEO-optimized content that resonates with industry professionals. LinkedIn Profile