How to Promote Proper Manga Consumption Overseas

In Japan, piracy sites were a major issue for manga as well, but publishers and platforms have since successfully shifted users to official sources. What efforts are needed overseas?

“First, the number of translated works must be increased. While Japan has over 500,000 electronic manga titles, only a few percent are available in English. Proper localization is also needed—not just translating speech bubbles, but adapting sound effects and even artwork. Currently, most translations depend on licensing agreements with overseas publishers, who can only select a limited number of works due to the high costs and labor involved,” Mizoguchi explained.

Interestingly, piracy translations are often handled by passionate fans who want to “share their favorite manga” with more people, despite engaging in illegal activities.

“They surprisingly show a certain level of ethics, sometimes taking down titles once an official translation is released. This doesn’t excuse their actions, but it does show a level of respect toward authors and publishers. Ultimately, the key is for Japan to unite in offering a large, fast, and comprehensive service matching the diversity of domestic manga,” Mizoguchi concluded.

The anime industry also faced similar struggles with illegal fan-subbed videos in the past. However, platforms like Crunchyroll, now offering anime with 16 subtitle languages and 12 dubbed languages globally, have drastically improved the situation, helping to eliminate piracy.

Last October, Keidanren (Japan Business Federation) proposed that Japanese content be positioned as a core industry, urging the government for concentrated support. It’s time for Japan’s manga industry to collaborate and grow into a truly competitive global force.

(Text: Sumiko Kodama)

Source : ORICON NEWS