The Global Rise of Anime: A 20-Year Phenomenon

The Numbers Tell a Story

In the early 2000s, the global anime industry was valued at about $8 billion. Fast forward to today, and it’s worth over $24 billion, with projections suggesting it could surpass $40 billion by 2030. Streaming platforms have played a pivotal role in this growth. Services like Crunchyroll and Netflix have brought anime to millions of viewers who may have never encountered it otherwise. In fact, Netflix has invested over $1 billion in anime content since 2017, recognizing its potential to reach a diverse global audience.

Anime conventions also highlight this incredible growth. For instance, Anime Expo in Los Angeles had just 43,000 attendees in 2005. By 2019, that number had more than doubled to over 107,000 fans celebrating their love for the medium. These events aren’t just gatherings—they’re communities where fans share their passion and connect over stories that transcend language and culture.

Japan: The Heart of Anime

Anime’s roots are, of course, in Japan, where studios like Studio Ghibli, Toei Animation, and Kyoto Animation continue to produce masterpieces. Iconic films like Spirited Away and recent blockbusters such as Demon Slayer: Mugen Train have captivated not just Japanese audiences but the world. Mugen Train earned over $500 million globally, becoming the highest-grossing anime movie of all time. In Japan, anime is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural identity.

North America: Anime Goes Mainstream

In the U.S., anime started as a subculture but has now become mainstream. Shows like Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Sailor Moon introduced many Americans to the genre in the 2000s. Today, platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation make it easier than ever to watch anime legally and conveniently. Major networks like Adult Swim’s Toonami have also played a significant role in bringing anime into American living rooms. What was once a niche interest is now a multi-billion-dollar industry embraced by people of all ages.

Europe: A Passion for Storytelling

Europe, especially France, has a unique relationship with anime. As the second-largest consumer of anime after Japan, France has embraced it wholeheartedly. Festivals like Japan Expo draw hundreds of thousands of attendees each year. French audiences appreciate the deep, layered storytelling that anime offers, as well as its artistic style, which aligns with Europe’s appreciation for animation as an art form.

Asia-Pacific and Latin America: A Growing Fanbase

In Southeast Asia, anime is immensely popular, with countries like the Philippines, Indonesia, and India embracing both subtitled and dubbed content. Latin America, too, has a long-standing love affair with anime. Shows like Saint Seiya and Naruto have cult followings, and streaming platforms are expanding access to these beloved series.