Netflix and Hollywood reignite the battle against anime and manga piracy

The ongoing battle against anime and manga piracy has been reignited as the Content Overseas Distribution Association (CODA) has extended its partnership with the Motion Picture Association of America (MPA) for another two years. This renewed commitment aims to continue the fight against online copyright infringement and strengthen joint protection activities.

Since the initial agreement in 2014, CODA and MPA have collaborated on various anti-piracy measures, resulting in tens of thousands of crackdowns in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. The recent success includes the first-ever conviction of an overseas anime piracy site operator in Japan, showcasing the effectiveness of their efforts.

With the anime industry increasingly reliant on international revenue, the fight against piracy becomes even more crucial. The Anime Industry Report 2023 revealed that nearly half of all income generated by the Japanese anime industry comes from overseas sources. However, piracy remains a significant issue, with eight of the top 10 most pirated TV shows in the world being anime series.

Despite the challenges posed by torrent sites and other distribution methods, CODA remains committed to combating copyright infringement. The recent shutdown of a major anime piracy site, followed by its quick relocation to a new platform, highlights the ongoing struggle to suppress leaks and protect intellectual property.

As the anime and manga industry continues to grow globally, the partnership between CODA and MPA plays a vital role in safeguarding the creative works of artists and creators. The fight against piracy remains a top priority to ensure the sustainability and integrity of the industry.