The situation of the anime industry in Japan continues to be worrying. According to a new report from Teikoku Data Bank, the number of animation studios that have closed or declared bankruptcy in 2025 it will increase by third consecutive year. In the first nine months of the year, they registered two bankruptcies and six suspensions or solutions, which brings the total to eight companies out of the market.
The current pace of closures is comparable to that of 2018, year in which a historical record was reached with 16 cases. The report warns that, by including the freelance subcontractors and animators those involved in production, the real number of professionals and companies affected could be much higher. Among the studies that have disappeared in recent years are names such as Ekachi Epilka, Cloud Hearts and Studio5.
The “profit-free boom” of Japanese animation
Paradoxically, this increase occurs while the anime market reaches its maximum level of growth since 2024. Teikoku Data Bank describes the current situation as a “boom without profits”, caused by the shortage of specialized personnel. The large number of projects in production has generated one work overload for studies, which are forced to extend delivery times or a outsource animation to other countries, increasing its costs due to the depreciation of the yen.
Work fatigue and loss of talent
The animators point out that the model of low-cost subcontracting it has led to a vicious circle. External productions usually require intensive corrections by Japanese staff, which has caused burnout among animation directors and a growing talent drain. The lack of skilled labor and low profit margins put the stability of the entire production chain at risk.
Although there are initiatives large publishers and the Japanese government itself to improve working conditions and income distribution, Teikoku Data Bank warns that production companies need urgent measures focused on the training and retention of creative personnel if you want to overcome the current crisis in the sector.
