Japan is preparing to expand government support for its anime and film industries in a bid to strengthen global competitiveness and increase exports, according to people familiar with the matter.
The move comes as Tokyo sets an ambitious target: tripling overseas revenue from Japanese content to ¥20 trillion by 2033.
Raising Subsidies for Large Productions
Currently, the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) provides subsidies of up to ¥200 million for video productions with budgets of ¥300 million or more. Under the new plan, the government is considering raising this upper limit, allowing larger projects—particularly films and high-budget anime productions—to secure more significant financial backing.
This is expected to help Japanese creators compete with international studios that enjoy robust state support.
Competing on the Global Stage
Japan’s move mirrors strategies already in place elsewhere.
- South Korea allocated ¥76.2 billion in 2023 to promote its cultural content overseas, a key driver behind the global popularity of K-dramas and K-pop.
- California, home to Hollywood, continues to offer extensive tax credits and subsidies to maintain its dominance in global entertainment.
In comparison, Japan earmarked about ¥25.2 billion this year to support its content industry—an amount industry experts say is insufficient if the country wants to expand its global footprint.
Anime as a Global Export
Anime remains one of Japan’s most recognizable cultural exports, with a worldwide fan base and growing demand from streaming platforms. However, rising production costs and fierce competition from Korea, China, and Western studios have put pressure on Japanese creators.
Boosting subsidies is seen as a way to give domestic studios the resources they need to produce high-quality, globally marketable content while retaining creative independence.
What It Means for the Industry
If implemented, the plan could:
- Provide larger financial cushions for studios taking on ambitious projects.
- Encourage international co-productions, boosting Japan’s cultural influence.
- Help Japan keep pace with South Korea and Hollywood in promoting content globally.
For the government, it’s not just about culture—it’s about economics. The global content industry is a trillion-dollar market, and Japan aims to claim a larger share by investing in its creative sectors.
Looking Ahead
As discussions move forward, the focus will be on whether the new subsidies can provide enough momentum to elevate Japan’s anime and film industries to the next level. With global demand for Japanese stories and aesthetics at an all-time high, the timing may be just right for Tokyo’s renewed push.
