Japan has been selected as the focus country for Producer Hub at the upcoming Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) – the industry platform of Busan International Film Festival.
The focus will see a spotlight placed on 10 Japanese producers, their projects, Japan’s production environment, and co-production case studies
The networking platform, aimed at producers from around the world pursuing international co-productions, has also been expanded from three to four days and is set to run October 10-13.
The selection of as-yet-unnamed Japanese producers will visit Busan to take part in project pitching and speed meetings in a bid to explore opportunities for international co-production with international producers.
“Japan today is Asia’s most dynamic co-production partner,” said ACFM director Ellen Y.D. Kim. “Building on its longstanding strength in independent and arthouse cinema, international collaboration is expanding on all fronts to encompass commercial films and series, backed by bold policies centred on grants and incentives.
“Together with Japan, this year’s Focus Country, Producer Hub aims to serve as a platform offering producers across Asia tangible opportunities for collaboration.”
Now in its third year, Producer Hub was launched in 2024 to lean into the growing trend of international co-production. Participants share insights into film production environments and market trends in their respective countries and exchange information on investment, production, filming, and support programs.
Korea was selected for the inaugural edition followed by Canada last year, when a total of 154 producers from 25 countries participated. Japan’s selection this year follows its spotlight at the Cannes market in May, where it was the country of honour.
The 21st ACFM is set to run October 10-13 at the Bexco exhibition centre in Busan. Last year’s edition drew 1,222 companies and 3,024 industry professionals from 55 countries registered. Total on-site attendance reached 30,006, marking the largest edition in ACFM’s history, and the sales market recorded 8,438 business meetings, with an estimated transaction value of approximately $71.16m.
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