By virtue of its mature, multi-fragmented synergistic profit system, the Japanese anime industry has secured its position as a global leader. Using literature review and case study methods, this study analyzes the five core profit models of this industry: the production committee model, character merchandising, global windowing strategy, transmedia development, and cinema–music collaboration. In light of the challenges faced by China’s animation industry, such as lack of synergy across the industrial chain, delays in derivative product development, and weak international expansion capabilities, targeted optimization paths are further proposed: building a production committee–type industrial alliance, implementing synchronous development of films and derivative products, establishing a full-cycle IP management system, and enhancing cultural translation and international operation capabilities. This study provides a development framework with both theoretical value and practical guidance for China's animation industry to break through the bottleneck of profitability and enhance its international competitiveness.
Research Article
Open Access