Anime tops Asian streaming categories, and Jujutsu Kaisen’s hit drives a studio reshuffle while platforms gain ownership, per the latest Anime Economy report.
Anime has become the dominant genre on Asian streaming services, topping all other categories in monthly audience size from July 2025 through August 2026. The surge is highlighted in the latest "The Anime Economy" report, which draws on audience panels across eight Asian markets.
Jujutsu Kaisen fuels a studio reshuffle
One of the most striking findings is the impact of the hit series Jujutsu Kaisen. The show’s explosive popularity has pushed its production house, MAPPA, to the forefront of the region’s anime studio rankings. Analysts attribute the climb to the series’ strong fan engagement and its strategic release on multiple streaming platforms.
Streaming shifts from licensing to ownership
While traditional licensing models still dominate, the report notes a clear pivot toward direct ownership of anime titles by streaming giants. This shift is driven by the desire to control distribution, monetize ancillary products, and retain subscriber data.
Netflix outpaces its own growth rate
Netflix, the global streaming heavyweight, recorded anime viewership growth that was nine times faster than the platform’s overall audience expansion during the same period. The data suggests that anime is not just a niche interest but a major growth engine for the service in Asia.
What this means for creators and fans
For creators, the trend signals increased investment opportunities and a broader canvas for storytelling. For fans, it translates into more immediate access to new releases, higher production values, and a wider variety of titles available under a single subscription.
Industry observers warn that the rapid acceleration could also intensify competition among studios and platforms, potentially leading to tighter schedules and higher expectations for quality. Nonetheless, the momentum shows no sign of slowing, and anime’s foothold in the streaming economy appears stronger than ever.
Looking ahead
As the next wave of anime releases rolls out, stakeholders will watch closely how ownership models evolve and whether other platforms can replicate Netflix’s growth trajectory. For now, the combination of a flagship series like Jujutsu Kaisen and a shifting business landscape is reshaping the Asian streaming market, cementing anime’s status as a cultural and economic powerhouse.
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