Where the growth is—and why
Japan’s anime industry reached a record $25 billion in 2024, according to a new industry report released this week, with momentum carrying into 2025 as overseas licensing, streaming, and events outpaced domestic TV revenues. The boom reflects a broader shift: fans are paying for premium simulcasts, collector editions, and live experiences, while studios leverage cross-media franchises spanning film, games, and merchandise. The U.S. and Europe remain major growth engines, but Southeast Asia and Latin America are climbing fast as platforms localize dubs and roll out theatrical windows. Analysts say robust demand is also drawing new capital into production committees, though rising costs for talent and post-production are squeezing smaller studios.

Risks: talent pipeline, AI, and labor standards
Behind the headline numbers lie pressure points. Artists and animators face long hours and low pay, prompting fresh scrutiny of working conditions and unionization efforts. Executives warn that an overreliance on a few breakout franchises could leave mid-tier titles squeezed for marketing and screen space. Meanwhile, generative AI is entering the workflow—from inbetweening assists to background generation—raising IP and credit questions even as it helps schedules. Policymakers and guilds are urging minimum standards and transparent credits to sustain the boom. For global streamers, the takeaway is simple: more co-financing and local theatrical runs are likely as anime cements itself as a pillar of worldwide entertainment.