Key facts
- Amazon's Prime Video will more than double its investment in original content production in Japan over the next two years.
- The platform aims to create globally appealing hit titles to challenge Netflix's dominance in the Japanese streaming market.
- Several new Japanese Prime Video Original titles were announced, including "HITOSHI MATSUMOTO Presents Documental" and "LOL: Last One Laughing."
- Sports content like "MLB on SPOTV" and "NBA on Prime" was also highlighted.
- Amazon MGM Studios will collaborate on content production for Prime Video Japan.
Amazon's Prime Video platform is set to more than double its investment in producing original content in Japan over the next two years. This strategic move aims to create hit exclusive titles that can challenge Netflix's current dominance in the Japanese streaming market and potentially become global successes.
During a strategy announcement event in Tokyo, Prime Video revealed plans to significantly increase its budget for Japanese productions. The platform intends to foster the creation of compelling original dramas and other content, with the ambition that the next major global hit will emerge from Japan. This initiative underscores Amazon's commitment to expanding its presence and offerings in the growing Japanese entertainment landscape.
Several new Prime Video Original titles were showcased, including upcoming seasons of popular shows like "HITOSHI MATSUMOTO Presents Documental" and "LOL: Last One Laughing." The platform also highlighted its sports programming, such as "MLB on SPOTV" and "NBA on Prime," indicating a diverse content strategy. Amazon MGM Studios is expected to collaborate on content production for Prime Video Japan, further bolstering its original offerings.
Kelly Day, Prime Video's Vice President and Head of International, expressed optimism about Japan's potential to produce globally appealing content. The company plans to invest approximately 10 billion yen annually in Prime Video Originals by 2028, signaling a substantial long-term commitment to the Japanese market.