Japan is gearing up to combat anime and manga piracy using artificial intelligence, a move that could help protect its multi-billion-dollar creative industry. Under a proposed ¥300 million ($2 million) pilot program, AI will scan the internet for pirated content using an advanced image and text detection system. The initiative, inspired by a similar project in South Korea, aims to tackle the growing issue of illegal distribution, which has become difficult to manage manually.
AI-Powered Crackdown on Illegal Websites
According to Japan’s Cultural Affairs Agency, there are at least 1,000 illegal websites offering free downloads of Japanese manga and anime. Copyright holders have been struggling to keep up with the vast amount of pirated content, with human moderators unable to handle the sheer volume. The AI system is expected to improve detection efficiency and potentially be expanded to other media, including films and music.
Japan’s creative industry is considered a key driver of economic growth, comparable to its steel and semiconductor sectors. The government’s “Cool Japan” strategy, revised in June, aims to increase cultural exports to ¥20 trillion by 2033. With piracy significantly affecting profits, the implementation of AI could be a major step toward protecting the industry’s global reach.
Piracy’s Global Impact on Japan’s Industry
Japanese publishers report that 70% of piracy sites operate in foreign languages like English, Chinese, and Vietnamese, making enforcement even more challenging. In 2022, Japan’s anime, manga, and gaming industries generated ¥4.7 trillion from international markets, approaching the ¥5.7 trillion revenue of microchip exports. The government hopes that by curbing piracy, it can maximize the financial potential of its cultural assets and ensure long-term industry growth.
