Manga Market Synopsis

Manga Market Size Was Valued at USD 13.98 Billion in 2023 and is Projected to Reach USD 48.92 Billion by 2032, Growing at a CAGR of 17.54% % From 2024-2032.

Manga are comics or graphic novels originating from Japan. Most manga conforms to a style developed in Japan in the late 19th century, and the form has a long history in earlier Japanese art. The term manga is used in Japan to refer to both comics and cartooning. Outside of Japan, the word is typically used to refer to comics originally published in Japan. In Japan, people of all ages and walks of life read the manga.

• Platforms such as Netflix and Crunchyroll have contributed to the increasing popularity of Japanese culture, particularly anime and manga, on a global scale. VIZ Media and ComiXology have increased global accessibility to manga, bridging geographic gaps and captivating fans worldwide. Hits like "Demon Slayer," "Attack on Titan," and "My Hero Academia" demonstrate how successful anime adaptations can boost the popularity of their original manga. Manga appeals to a broad range of audiences, from children to adults, with its wide variety of genres such as action, romance, fantasy, horror, and slice-of-life.
• Enhanced translations have increased the availability of manga to readers outside Japan, as publishers focus on top-notch localization efforts. Social media platforms such as Reddit, Twitter, and Discord play a role in strengthening the manga fan community, increasing fan interaction, and boosting the medium's popularity worldwide. Success in manga contributes to increased sales of merchandise and licensing agreements, propelling the market forward.
• Cross-media synergy increases exposure by utilizing anime, movies, video games, and books, establishing a continuous consumption pattern for well-known franchises. Publishers and media companies are dedicating increased resources to marketing and distributing manga as the market continues to expand. Lockdowns due to COVID-19 led to more people reading manga for entertainment, a habit that has continued even after the pandemic. The medium includes works in a broad range of genres action, adventure, business and commerce, comedy, detective, drama, historical, horror, mystery, romance, science fiction and fantasy, erotica, sports and games, and suspense, among others. Many manga are translated into other languages.

Manga Market Trend Analysis

Widespread rise in anime adaptations

• The popularity and sales of manga are increasing due to successful anime adaptations serving as an entry point for new audiences. When an anime gains popularity, it sparks curiosity in the source manga, since fans are eager to explore the story and art further. This increase in fascination frequently results in a notable increase in manga purchases, as evidenced by titles such as Demon Slayer Kimetsu no Yaiba. Anime adaptations also contribute to broadening the international appeal of manga, as platforms such as Netflix and Crunchyroll make manga titles accessible to audiences around the world. This has led to a boost in global sales and the translation of additional manga into multiple languages.
• The content and style of manga may be altered by creators and publishers to better suit animation due to the impact of successful anime adaptations. The timing of manga publication frequently coincides with the creation of the anime to guarantee sufficient source material and take advantage of the higher viewer interest. This procedure may result in the creation of more dynamic action sceness, character designs that are more polished, and pacing that is adjusted for episodic formats.
• Anime and manga both profit from cross-promotion, as adaptations function as effective marketing instruments. This collaboration also includes merchandise, video games, and live-action adaptations which enhance the worth of the original manga. Streaming platforms help create innovative business models by investing in manga publications or providing exclusive digital manga. This blurs the boundaries of manga and anime distribution, resulting in a more united market. There is a trend towards shorter, more compact manga series that are easily adaptable into one-season anime, as opposed to the usual long-running series.

Translating Manga into Various Languages Can open up New Markets and Attract Diverse Readerships.

• Increasing the global presence of manga requires translating it into various languages to connect with international audiences who do not speak Japanese. This localization not only ensures the content is reachable but also adjusts cultural references, jokes, and idioms to enhance connection with local readers. Manga publishers can expand their audience and grow their global readership by tapping into different markets.
• The translation of manga into various languages attracts a wide range of age groups and demographics, enabling publishers to access new reader segments such as younger and older individuals or people with unique cultural backgrounds. It also fosters inclusivity and accessibility by developing Braille and audio versions for individuals with various linguistic skills and visual impairments. Translating manga into various languages helps increase sales in international markets, like North America. This achievement is evident in both online and in-store sales, as online platforms facilitate cross-border distribution, and physical copies are promoted in channels such as bookstores and supermarkets.
• Translating manga has the potential to lead to licensing agreements with local publishers, which can in turn bring more revenue to creators. Merchandise opportunities can arise from popular manga series, diversifying the market with toys, clothing, and video games. Translating Japanese comics helps facilitate cultural exchange by disseminating Japanese culture worldwide and encouraging partnerships between Japanese and non-Japanese artists, writers, and publishers. This may result in the creation of new pieces that mix diverse cultures and attract a broader audience, showcasing and respecting Japanese arts, customs, and beliefs.

Manga Market Segment Analysis:

• Manga Market Segmented on the Basis of Type, Genre, Audience, Gender, Distribution Channel, And Region.

By Genre Type, Action and Adventure Segment Is Expected to Dominate the Market During the Forecast Period

• The demand for Action and Adventure genres is significantly shaped by shonen manga, catering to a younger male audience with massive quests, conflicts, and obstacles. Famous titles such as Naruto, One Piece, and Dragon Ball have gained immense popularity worldwide by resonating with a broad range of viewers through themes of bravery, comradeship, and personal development. These series have been not just top sellers in Japan but also well-liked in global markets, demonstrating the prevalence of these genres.
• The young protagonists' formula of overcoming challenges captivates a wide audience, drawing in readers of all genders, ages, and cultural backgrounds. This has established the Action and Adventure genres as highly popular and cherished in the manga community. Many popular manga series mix Action and Adventure with elements of fantasy, science fiction, horror, or the supernatural, attracting fans from various genres. Shows like Full Metal Alchemist blend action with steampunk and fantasy elements, whereas Attack on Titan combines action with horror and dystopian motifs.
• The compelling narrative and vibrant visuals in these categories transform manga into thrilling sequences of fierce fights and emotional scenes. Romance and Drama genres may be preferred by female readers, but they do not reach the same commercial success as Action and Adventure manga. Shojo manga, which centers on romance, has a large fanbase but is seen as less mainstream than action-packed shonen series. Comedy and Slice of Life manga are popular in Japan, but they do not have the same level of dominance in the market as action manga.

By Gender, Male Segment Held the Largest Share In 2023

• Gender-based market segmentation in manga involves categorizing manga into sh?nen, targeted at boys aged 12-18, with themes of action and self-discovery, such as Naruto and Dragon Ball being popular examples. Seinen manga is aimed at adult men over the age of 18 and explores mature topics such as psychological drama and politics, featuring popular works like Berserk and Ghost in the Shell. Both sections target varying age demographics and hobbies.
• Exciting and daring tales with powerful main characters are attractive to male audiences, especially in Sh?nen and seinen manga. These narratives include high risks, conflicts, and individual development that connect with male viewers. The visual presentation features energetic combat sequences and powerful character appearances, with a narrative emphasis on conquering challenges and reaching objectives. Sh?nen and seinen manga targeted towards males are widely popular around the world, connecting with themes such as heroism and competition.
• In areas beyond Japan, like North America and Europe, these categories have experienced notable triumphs in the industry. Exciting and daring tales with powerful main characters are attractive to male audiences, especially in Sh?nen and Seinen manga. These narratives include high risks, conflicts, and individual development that connect with male viewers. The visual presentation features energetic combat sequences and powerful character appearances, with a narrative emphasis on conquering challenges and reaching objectives.

Manga Market Regional Insights:

Asia Pacific is Expected to Dominate the Market Over the Forecast Period

• Manga has its roots in Japan in the early 1900s, emerging from a long history of artistic storytelling that spans many centuries. Manga is deeply ingrained in the culture of the Asia-Pacific region, showcasing societal values and norms, which leads to a high demand for the medium. The region's cultural importance boosts its standing in the manga market, turning it into more than just entertainment, but also a form of cultural representation.
• Japan holds the title of being the biggest manga market, boasting high consumption rates in both Japan and other Asian regions. Various formats such as print and digital see millions of copies sold every year. Manga magazines, also known as "tank?bon," can be found easily in bookstores, convenience stores, and online platforms. Japanese manga is widely enjoyed in nearby nations such as South Korea, China, and Taiwan, adding to the region's strong presence in the worldwide market. These nations possess enthusiastic fan followings who enjoy both Japanese manga imported from abroad and domestic creations influenced by Japanese aesthetics.
• Japan's manga industry is now utilizing digital platforms such as Manga Plus and Comico, which helps in cutting costs and enhancing availability. Through digital distribution, manga has extended its reach worldwide, enabling Japan to export its culture and content globally, strengthening the supremacy of the Asia-Pacific region. Success in Japan is driven by the strong correlation between manga and anime. Frequently, well-liked manga series are adapted into anime, leading to increased sales and popularity. This collaboration extends beyond Japan and impacts the Asia-Pacific area as well.

Manga Market Active Players

• Shueisha Inc. (Japan)
• Kodansha Ltd. (Japan)
• Shogakukan Inc. (Japan)
• Hakusensha Inc. (Japan)
• Square Enix Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Kadokawa Corporation (Japan)
• Akita Shoten (Japan)
• Futabasha Publishers Ltd. (Japan)
• Tokuma Shoten (Japan)
• Shinchosha Publishing Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Houbunsha Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Leed Publishing Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Gakken Plus Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Mag Garden Corporation (Japan)
• Bamboo Comics (Japan)
• Ichijinsha Inc. (Japan)
• Media Factory Inc. (Japan)
• Libre Publishing Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Shodensha Publishing Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Ohta Publishing Co. (Japan)
• Wani Books Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Shinshokan Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Shueisha Creative Co., Ltd. (Japan)
• Takeshobo Co., Ltd. (Japan), and Other Active Players.

Key Industry Developments in the Manga Market:

• In Feb 2023, Akita Shoten revealed a new brand called J-TOON, their debut vert