ASEAN–Russia Animation Market Opens in Khabarovsk

The ASEAN–Russia Animation Market opened in Khabarovsk on October 1, bringing together Russian animation professionals and representatives of the animation industries of ASEAN member states. The forum is being held as part of the 5th Animur International Animation Film Festival and will run through October 4.

Representatives from all 11 ASEAN member states — Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam — have arrived in Khabarovsk. The delegations include representatives of industry organizations, animation studios, producers, directors and artists.

The Animation Film Association of Russia is participating in the forum on the Russian side.

An opening press conference was held on October 1. One of the key topics was the promotion of Russian animation in the Asia-Pacific region.

Irina Mastusova, Executive Director of the Animation Film Association of Russia, noted that Khabarovsk could become an important gateway for Russian animation projects entering Asian markets. The city’s geographical proximity to countries in the region and the development of its local animation industry create favorable conditions for this.

The main business program will take place on October 3–4. Participants will discuss the animation markets of Russia and ASEAN countries, opportunities for co-production and distribution, intellectual property management, professional training and the development of international projects. The program also includes presentations, pitching sessions, screenings and meetings between Russian and international companies.

The ASEAN–Russia Animation Market is being held as part of the Russia–ASEAN: Territory of Animation project. The 18-month initiative includes research into the animation markets of participating countries, an educational program and the development of professional connections between Russian and international studios.

The forum will conclude on October 4.