A survey conducted in Japan in May 2022 showed that 58.1 percent of the respondents aged 20 to 29 years old read manga. While people in their twenties had the highest share of avid readers, those in their thirties were the age group with the highest share of occasional readers.

The Japanese manga market

Manga are a popular pastime in Japan. The medium constitutes a large market and makes up a big part of the Japanese publishing industry. Titles are usually divided into different categories based on demographic target groups. Next to works for young children, one can find categories such as shonen manga aimed at boys, shojo manga aimed at girls, seinen manga for young adult men, or josei manga for adult women. Although manga are often associated with Japan’s youth culture, there are many different genres that appeal to readers’ tastes, and it is common for people to read works not targeting one’s own demographic group.

Growing importance of digital consumption

For many decades, it was a common pattern for new works to be first introduced to readers by print magazines before being turned into comic books. More recently, digitally published manga have significantly expanded their market share as the spread of smartphones and tablets has made the mobile consumption of digital content more convenient. The 2010s saw a proliferation of apps catering to manga readers, which also increased the competition for the established publishing houses. Apps employ different monetization models but often offer some chapters for free as a teaser for additional content that can be purchased.

The most recently available data on manga sales in the United States revealed that manga sales growth amounted to nine percent in 2022 from the previous year. This is positive news not only for the manga arm of the book industry but for the market as a whole. Manga originated in Japan but in recent years has grown popular with children and adults across the globe, and as of September 2019 the best-selling manga series of all time was 'One Piece' by Eiichiro Oda, with over 450 million copies sold worldwide.

According to a survey conducted among Japanese high school students in June 2024, 30 percent of the respondents stated that they read manga on an almost daily basis. The combined share of high school students who read manga at least once a week amounted to 58 percent.

The global manga market size reached US$ 13.4 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 48.6 Billion by 2032, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 15.44% during 2024-2032. The presence of a diverse range of genres and target audiences in manga, the emergence of numerous digital platforms and online sites and increasing number of anime adaptations are some of the major factors propelling the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global manga market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2024-2032. Our report has categorized the market based on type, genre, audience, gender, and distribution channel.

According to a survey conducted in May 2020, close to 92 percent of male high school students in Japan stated that they read shonen or seinen manga. The share was lower in the case of female students. While the term "shonen manga" refers to manga aimed at boys, "seinen manga" refers to manga aimed at young men.

Comprehensive population and demographic data for Manga (12) Village

Global manga market size & share estimated to surpass USD 53,502.4 Million by 2032, to grow at a CAGR of 16.5% during the forecast period.

According to a survey conducted in May 2020, almost 77 percent of female high school students in Japan stated that they read shojo or josei manga. The share was much lower in the case of male students. While the term "shojo manga" refers to manga aimed at girls, "josei manga" refers to manga aimed at women.

Brazil Population: Residents: Southeast: Minas Gerais: Manga data was reported at 18,594.000 Person in 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 19,372.000 Person for 2017. Brazil Population: Residents: Southeast: Minas Gerais: Manga data is updated yearly, averaging 21,971.000 Person from Jun 1992 (Median) to 2018, with 24 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 30,931.000 Person in 1995 and a record low of 18,594.000 Person in 2018. Brazil Population: Residents: Southeast: Minas Gerais: Manga data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. The data is categorized under Brazil Premium Database’s Socio and Demographic – Table BR.GAA050: Population: by Municipality: Northeast: Minas Gerais.

Comprehensive population and demographic data for Chak Manga Gujjar Village

Mangas, the graphic novels originating from Japan, are culturally and artistically speaking, one of the most popular export products of Japan. Among its most avid readers are the French: In 2020, over 40 percent of French male preadolescents (aged 13 to 15) declared reading Mangas. As for their female counterparts, more than one third of them also declared reading this Japanese comics form.

The global comic book publishing market, valued at $14.59 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. The rising popularity of digital platforms, including e-readers and mobile apps, offers wider accessibility and distribution channels, significantly boosting market reach. Moreover, the increasing popularity of graphic novels and manga, particularly among younger demographics, fuels demand. Successful adaptations of comic books into films and television series further enhance the visibility and appeal of the medium, attracting new readers and fostering brand loyalty. The diverse range of genres, from superhero narratives to science fiction and manga, caters to a broad spectrum of consumer preferences, ensuring sustained market dynamism. However, the market also faces certain challenges. Competition from other forms of entertainment, such as video games and streaming services, poses a significant threat. The industry's reliance on creative talent necessitates careful management of production costs and intellectual property rights. Furthermore, maintaining consistent quality and originality amidst increasing output is crucial for sustained market success. Despite these restraints, the market's inherent resilience, driven by a passionate and growing fanbase, combined with strategic expansions into new formats and global markets, suggests a promising trajectory for the foreseeable future. Regional variations exist, with North America and Asia-Pacific expected to dominate market share, driven by robust consumer spending and a strong presence of major publishing houses.

The sales value of digital comics in Japan was estimated at 512.2 billion Japanese yen in 2024, which made it the largest segment within the Japanese comic market. The total sales value of comics during that year reached 704.3 billion yen. While both printed comic books and digital comics profited considerably from the increased demand for entertainment during the COVID-19 pandemic and the release of several hit titles in 2020 and 2021, only digital comics were able to grow from 2022 onward, indicating an ongoing shift from print to digital consumption.

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Comic Book Market Size 2025-2029

The comic book market size is forecast to increase by USD 3.35 billion at a CAGR of 4.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by several key trends. One notable factor is the success of television shows and movies based on comic books, which has led to increased interest and demand for the source material. However, manga and independent publications also hold significant sway, offering unique perspectives and niche audiences. Additionally, the industry is embracing diversity, with a growing focus on representing a wider range of characters and stories. However, challenges persist, including the issue of comic book piracy, which continues to impact sales and revenue. As the market evolves, it is essential for stakeholders to stay informed and adapt to these trends and challenges to capitalize on the opportunities presented by this dynamic industry.

What will be the Size of the Comic Book Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a diverse range of genres, including superhero tales, fantasy stories, contemporary fiction, crime stories, and supernatural romance. This dynamic industry caters to a broad audience, with readers spanning various age groups and demographics. Superhero narratives, spearheaded by industry giants like Marvel, continue to dominate the market.
Additionally, the market faces several trends and challenges. The reading experience is evolving, with digital platforms and mobile apps increasingly popular. Logistical issues, such as congested ports and supply chain disruptions, can impact distribution. Independent bookstores and communities play a crucial role in fostering a vibrant comic book culture. The World Bank reports that The market is projected to grow steadily, driven by increasing consumer interest and technological advancements. Despite these trends, the industry remains competitive, with players like Comiket, Eudicom, Aldus, and others vying for market share.

How is this Comic Book Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The comic book industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Non-digital
  Digital


Product Type

  Hard copy
  E-book
  Audiobooks


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France


  South America

    Brazil


  Middle East and Africa

By Type Insights

The non-digital segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The non-digital market continues to hold a substantial share In the global comic industry, with increasing demand from various demographics. Printed comic books, available at comic bookstores and online retailers like Amazon, cater to audiences who appreciate the tactile experience and sentimental appeal of owning a physical copy. Collectors, in particular, value the preservation potential and potential for future resale. Genres such as superhero tales, fantasy stories, contemporary fiction, crime stories, supernatural romance, and more, continue to attract kids, teens, adults, and young adults.

Additionally, comic bookstores, specialty stores, and bookstores remain essential leisure areas for comic enthusiasts, while digital platforms like ComiXology, Marvel Unlimited, Webtoon, and others cater to the growing digital wave. The market encompasses a wide range of genres, from all-ages comics and children's franchises to licensed media, graphic novels, and literary fantasy. The market's continuing developments and rising income and interest among various demographics contribute to the overall growth and reading experience for comic fans.

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The non-digital segment was valued at USD 6.65 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 74% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The APAC region represents a significant market for comic books, driven primarily by the popularity of manga and anime. Japanese manga, a long-standing cultural phenomenon, has gained global recognition, with anime adaptations increasing its reach on streaming platforms. The primary revenue source In the region is anime production. Other genres, including superhero tales, fantasy stories, contemporary fiction, crime stories,

The global comic book market, valued at $12.89 billion in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The increasing popularity of graphic novels and manga, particularly among younger demographics, is driving demand. Furthermore, the expansion of digital platforms and the accessibility of e-books and audiobooks are broadening the market's reach beyond traditional hard copies. Successful adaptations of comic book properties into films, television series, and video games also contribute significantly to market expansion, generating renewed interest in the source material. The diverse range of genres and styles caters to a broad audience, enhancing market appeal. However, challenges remain, including the high cost of production for physical comics, potential copyright and licensing issues, and competition from other forms of entertainment. The market segmentation into non-digital and digital formats, alongside hard copies, e-books, and audiobooks, reflects the evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. Key players like The Walt Disney Company, Warner Bros. Discovery, and several major Japanese publishers are strategically positioned to capitalize on the market's continued growth. Geographic growth is expected to be varied, with regions like North America and APAC, particularly China and Japan, showing strong potential given their established readership and emerging markets. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established publishers and emerging independent creators. While large corporations benefit from established distribution channels and brand recognition, independent publishers contribute to the market's diversity and innovation. Future growth will likely depend on successful adaptations of existing intellectual property, embracing new digital distribution models, and continued innovation within storytelling and artistic styles. The industry’s successful navigation of these factors will determine the pace and extent of future growth, creating both opportunities and challenges for established players and new entrants alike. Strategic partnerships and collaborations between publishers, technology providers, and entertainment companies are likely to shape the future landscape of this dynamic market.

The Manga Webtoon Integration market is rapidly evolving, driven by the increasing popularity of digital comics and the growing trend of cross-platform storytelling. This integration serves as a bridge between traditional manga and modern webtoons, allowing creators to blend styles and reach diverse audiences. As th

The global webcomic and graphic novel market is experiencing robust growth, projected to reach a market size of $30.56 billion in 2025. While the exact Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) isn't provided, considering the significant rise in digital content consumption and the increasing popularity of webcomics and graphic novels across diverse demographics, a conservative estimate of the CAGR for the forecast period (2025-2033) would be around 15%. This translates to substantial market expansion, driven by factors such as the readily accessible nature of digital platforms, the diverse range of genres catering to various reader preferences, and the rise of creator-driven content on platforms like Webtoon and Tapas. The market segmentation reveals a strong preference for subscription-based models, indicating a willingness among readers to pay for quality content and consistent updates. Mobile apps dominate the application segment, reflecting the convenience and portability that mobile devices offer for consuming visual storytelling. Key players like Naver, Kakao, and Lezhin Entertainment are driving innovation through sophisticated platforms and expanding their content libraries, while the emergence of new players and the increasing investments in this space further fuels market growth. The market's geographical distribution is diverse, with North America and Asia Pacific currently leading in terms of market share. However, the increasing global accessibility of digital content and the expanding popularity of graphic novels and webcomics in emerging markets are expected to drive growth across all regions in the coming years. Market restraints include the challenges of copyright protection and the need for continued platform development to enhance user experience. Nevertheless, ongoing advancements in technology and the emergence of new storytelling formats will likely overcome these challenges, propelling the market towards sustained expansion and innovation in the long term. The continued success of established players and the emergence of new global and regional players will shape the competitive landscape in the years to come.

The global Comic Con market, encompassing thematic and comprehensive exhibitions across the cultural, tourism, and entertainment industries, is experiencing robust growth. While precise market size figures for 2025 are not provided, considering the presence of major players like San Diego Comic Con, New York Comic Con, and international events like China Joy, along with a CAGR (let's assume a conservative 8% based on industry trends for similar events) and a value unit of millions, we can reasonably estimate a 2025 market size in the range of $2.5 to $3 billion USD. This growth is fueled by several key drivers, including the increasing popularity of comic books, graphic novels, anime, manga, and related pop culture phenomena, particularly amongst younger demographics. The rise of streaming services and social media platforms has further amplified fan engagement and the reach of these events, driving ticket sales, merchandise revenue, and overall market expansion. Furthermore, the diversification of exhibitors, including film studios, gaming companies, and artists, enriches the experience and broadens the market appeal, attracting a more diverse audience than ever before. However, the market faces certain restraints. Economic downturns can impact consumer spending on discretionary entertainment. The increasing competition from virtual events and online streaming might limit the appeal of in-person attendance. Logistics, venue availability, and security concerns also present operational challenges. Segmentation reveals a significant contribution from North America (driven by established events like San Diego Comic Con and New York Comic Con), with Europe and Asia-Pacific also displaying substantial, albeit potentially more fragmented, market shares. Future growth will likely depend on innovative event formats, enhanced digital engagement strategies, and expansion into new geographical regions, potentially leveraging the success of smaller, regional Comic Cons to fuel wider expansion. The market's future trajectory hinges on the ability of organizers to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and harness technological advancements to enhance the overall fan experience.

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Digital Comic Book Market Size 2025-2029

The digital comic book market size is forecast to increase by USD 1.65 billion at a CAGR of 5.5% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing demand for digital content and the convenience it offers to consumers. This trend is further fueled by the growing number of partnerships and acquisitions in the industry. Digital comics offer convenience and accessibility, allowing readers to enjoy their content on various devices, including smartphones and tablets. 
However, the integration of digital comic books into existing platforms and systems poses challenges, such as compatibility issues and the need for seamless user experiences. To stay competitive, market players must address these challenges and continue to innovate, providing high-quality digital comic book experiences for consumers. The market analysis also highlights the importance of effective marketing strategies and engaging content to attract and retain customers in the highly competitive digital landscape.

What will be the Digital Comic Book Market Size During the Forecast Period?

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The market has experienced significant growth in recent years, with e-commerce emerging as a popular avenue for consumers to purchase and access their favorite titles. However, this shift from non-digital formats to digital comics has not diminished the demand for traditional comic books. The superhero and action genres, long-standing favorites among comic enthusiasts, continue to thrive in both digital and non-digital formats. The anime industry, with its vast array of genres such as science fiction and manga, also contributes significantly to the market.



Female audiences have become an essential demographic in the market. Publishers like Aftershock Media have recognized this trend and have responded by producing a diverse range of titles that cater to this audience. The positive message and creativity enhancement that comics provide make them an attractive medium for readers of all ages. Comic events, such as Comic-Con, continue to draw large crowds, showcasing the enduring appeal of comic books. Comic collectors, both adults and kids, still value the physical copies of their favorite titles, with auctions and custom comic books being popular substitutes for the traditional reading experience.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Paid
  Free


Genre

  Science-fiction
  Manga
  Superhero
  Non-fiction
  Others


End-User

  Kids
  Adults


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    France


  South America

    Brazil


  Middle East and Africa

By Type Insights

The paid segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The market has experienced steady growth due to the increasing popularity of science fiction genres, particularly among female audiences. This growth can be attributed to several factors, including the success of comic book-based TV shows and movies, as well as the availability of innovative offerings such as discounts for new subscribers. Additionally, the rise in paper pulp and raw material prices has made digital comic books a cost-effective alternative.

Geopolitical issues and advancements in digital technology have also contributed to the market's expansion. Furthermore, the emergence of AI-illustrated comics and non-fungible token (NFT) comics has added new dimensions to the industry. The paid segment of the market is expected to continue growing moderately during the forecast period, driven by the increasing number of subscribers seeking access to the latest releases.

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The paid segment was valued at USD 1.53 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 64% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The market in the region is experiencing a significant shift as readers increasingly prefer digital formats over printed books. This trend is driven by the widespread availability of high-speed Internet and the growing number of consumers owning smartphones, tablets, and computers. Publishers are responding to this trend by offering digital comic books in various g