Published Date: March 15, 2025
Author: Global World Citizen News Team
Source: GlobalWorldCitizen.com
Japanese Anime Studios Expand in India to Capture Growing Market
Japan’s Anime Industry Targets India’s Booming Demand for Animation
Japanese anime studios are making aggressive moves into the Indian market, recognizing the growing appetite for animated content among generations of viewers who grew up watching Japanese children’s series. With an increasing fanbase, a rapidly expanding entertainment sector, and the rise of streaming platforms, Japan’s anime industry is seizing the opportunity to deepen its influence in one of the world’s fastest-growing media markets.
Anime Distribution Expands Across Streaming and Theaters
Leading Japanese media conglomerate Avex has been at the forefront of India’s anime expansion through its dedicated distribution platform, Anime Times, which streams content via Amazon Prime Video India. Backed by major Japanese publishers such as Shueisha, the service has significantly increased its offerings, doubling its anime library since launching in 2023.
Anime Times features globally popular titles like Tokyo Revengers and Spy x Family, ensuring Indian fans get access to the latest and most beloved shows. Initially, the platform only offered an annual subscription plan, but in response to growing demand, it now provides an affordable monthly subscription of 69 rupees (approximately 79 cents).
“We’ll continue refining the service to ensure Indian audiences become more engaged and familiar with Japanese anime,” an Anime Times representative stated.
In addition to digital expansion, Japanese broadcaster TV Asahi is revamping the classic gag series Obocchama-kun, set to air this spring on Sony YAY, a popular Indian children’s channel. Furthermore, the long-running franchise Crayon Shin-chan will achieve a milestone this October with its first-ever theatrical release in India, marking a major step toward bringing anime films to Indian cinemas.
Indian Theaters Welcome Japanese Anime Films
Tokyo-based production studio Geek Pictures, widely known for its work with Uniqlo, has also been actively growing its presence in India since launching operations in 2019. The studio has recognized India as a prime market for anime film distribution and production.
In January 2024, Geek Pictures collaborated with Indian cinema chain PVR Cinemas to re-release Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama, a digitally remastered version of the 1993 Indo-Japanese animated classic. The film, inspired by the Hindu epic Ramayana, was reintroduced with Hindi and regional language dubs, expanding its reach to a broader audience.
Beyond film distribution, Geek Pictures is now looking to invest in anime production within India, tapping into local talent and resources to cater to the growing demand for Japanese animation.
India’s Growing Anime Audience and Market Potential
India’s anime fanbase has grown exponentially, particularly among Generation Z and young adults. Titles like Crayon Shin-chan and Doraemon, which have been on Indian television since the early 2000s, played a key role in shaping a new generation of anime lovers.
Historically, India’s animation sector has been dominated by children’s content, with domestic shows like Chhota Bheem and Western classics like Tom and Jerry maintaining strong viewership. However, in recent years, the demand for anime among older audiences has surged, fueled by streaming services and theatrical releases.
Before 2018, Japanese anime films were rarely screened in Indian cinemas. That changed in 2019 when over 50,000 fans signed a petition urging the nationwide release of Makoto Shinkai’s Weathering With You. This success opened the floodgates for anime films in India. By 2024, more than eight anime movies were screened across 50+ Indian cities, including hits like Spy x Family: Code White and Hayao Miyazaki’s The Boy and the Heron.
According to PVR Cinemas, anime screenings are drawing increasing audiences, proving the potential of theatrical anime in India.
India’s Animation Industry on the Rise
India’s animation sector is experiencing rapid growth, driven by digital streaming and theatrical demand. According to Ernst & Young (EY), the Indian animation market reached a valuation of 40 billion rupees ($458 million) in 2024, marking an 80% increase since 2019. The industry is projected to hit 56 billion rupees by 2026, making it a lucrative space for international studios.
Japanese anime companies are not the only ones eyeing India’s booming market. The Walt Disney Company recently formed a media joint venture with Indian conglomerate Reliance Industries, signaling its plans to expand Disney content on local TV and streaming services. This move could make Disney a formidable competitor for Japanese studios, given its vast entertainment portfolio.
Challenges: Piracy and Market Competition
Despite the rapid expansion of anime in India, Japanese studios face challenges, including:
Piracy and counterfeit goods: Illegal streaming sites and unauthorized merchandise sales continue to undercut the industry’s revenue. Counterfeit anime products are frequently sold at 30% of the original price, making it difficult for authentic goods to compete.
Growing competition from Hollywood and local studios: With companies like Disney and Indian studios increasing their animation offerings, Japanese anime must work harder to maintain its unique appeal.
Hiroki Kawasaki, senior director at the New Delhi branch of Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), emphasized the importance of branding, stating:
“To counter piracy and competition, Japanese companies must actively showcase the authenticity and cultural value of their products to Indian consumers.”
The Future of Anime in India
With increasing investment from Japanese anime studios, local partnerships, and a growing fanbase, India is poised to become a key market for anime expansion. The success of streaming platforms, anime movies in cinemas, and merchandising opportunities indicate a sustainable future for anime in India.
As the anime boom continues, Japanese companies are strategically positioning themselves to capture this growing demand, ensuring that India remains a significant player in the global anime industry. 
