Japan IP Market Returns to Cannes

Cannes is set to host the Japan IP Market for a second consecutive year. The Cannes Film Market and TIFFCOM, the content market of the Tokyo International Film Festival, confirmed the partnership at a conference in Tokyo on Wednesday. The 2027 edition is scheduled for May 14 and 15.

The announcement followed Japan’s tenure as Country of Honor at the Cannes Film Market. The initial event ran in May 2026 as part of that national initiative. It connected Japanese rights holders with foreign industry professionals through pitches, one-on-one meetings, and discussions. Major studios including Kadokawa, Shochiku, and Toei Company participated in the first year.

Guillaume Esmiol, executive director of the Cannes Film Market, stated that the collaboration extends beyond a single edition. He noted that the market gives Japanese intellectual properties greater access to international partners. Esmiol expressed delight at continuing the work with TIFFCOM to create more opportunities for rights holders to connect with producers.

Alexandra Zakharchenko, head of industry programs at the Cannes Film Market, attended the Tokyo conference. She said the market creates the right conditions for business opportunities between Japanese rights holders and international companies. Zakharchenko aimed to turn growing interest in Japanese content into concrete adaptation deals and acquisitions.

Shiina Yasushi, executive adviser at UNIJAPAN and CEO of TIFFCOM, described the Cannes market as the largest attached to any film festival. He emphasized that meeting international professionals is key to nurturing Japanese IP into global content. Shiina said the partnership plays an important role for Japan’s audiovisual industry.

Ikeda Kaori, managing director of TIFFCOM, said the first edition demonstrated strong global demand for Japanese IP. She highlighted the link between the Cannes event in May and the Tokyo IP Market in October. The 2027 roster of companies and the full program will be unveiled in the coming months.