Netflix and Japanese animation studio MAPPA have announced an expanded strategic partnership aimed at producing and distributing anime for a global audience. MAPPA is known for major hits such as Chainsaw Man and Jujutsu Kaisen.
The new agreement moves beyond standard production deals. Under the partnership, Netflix and MAPPA will work together as co-producers from the earliest stages of story development through worldwide release.
What the Partnership Includes
The deal focuses on three main areas of collaboration:
Original Anime Co-Productions: Netflix and MAPPA will jointly develop new anime titles from the script stage. The goal is to create stories that appeal to global viewers while keeping MAPPA’s high-quality animation style.
Exclusive Global Streaming: Many upcoming MAPPA projects will launch exclusively on Netflix and release at the same time in more than 190 countries. This global release strategy aims to reduce piracy and bring fans together worldwide.
Merchandising Collaboration: For the first time, Netflix and MAPPA will also work together on merchandise. This includes apparel and collectibles linked to new anime series, sold through Netflix’s official store.
Why the Deal Matters
MAPPA CEO Manabu Otsuka said the partnership supports the studio’s long-term independence. He noted that Japanese animation studios must take control of both creative work and global business expansion.
Netflix Japan content executive Kaata Sakamoto highlighted strong growth in anime viewership. According to Netflix, anime viewing on the platform has tripled in the past five years, and more than half of its global subscribers now watch anime.
What Comes Next
The companies have not revealed specific titles yet, but several projects are already in development. The deal strengthens Netflix’s role in the anime industry, adding to its existing partnerships with studios such as Production I.G and Wit Studio.
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