In an exciting development for the film industry, the Asian Contents & Film Market (ACFM) has announced Japan as the 2026 Focus Country for its Producer Hub. This initiative is a vital co-production networking platform associated with the prestigious Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), which will empower Japanese producers to connect with international partners.
Japanese Producers Set for Busan
Ten producers from Japan are set to attend Busan in October, where they will engage in project pitching, speed meetings, and case-study sessions. This year marks the third installment of the Producer Hub, which provides a platform for producers to exchange insights and foster relationships geared toward international co-productions. Each year, a focus country is chosen to highlight its production landscape, incentive programs, and ongoing projects.
Building International Relationships
The Japanese delegation will actively pitch co-production projects and elucidate the workings of the country’s production system as they seek new partnerships throughout the region, as noted by ACFM. The Producer Hub, which launched in 2024, offers a specialized space for producers to compare notes on financing, investment, and local support across various territories.
A Growing Initiative
Korea was the inaugural focus country in 2024, co-hosted by the Korean Film Council, followed by Canada in 2025 alongside Telefilm Canada. Last year’s event saw a remarkable turnout of 154 producers from 25 countries, a significant exchange that was bolstered by an audiovisual co-production treaty between Canada and Korea signed in 2026. The network of partner organizations for Producer Hub has expanded from eight organizations in seven countries at its inception to 13 organizations across 10 countries today.
Expanded Schedule for 2026
The Producer Hub 2026 will take place from October 10 to 13, extending one day longer than the previous edition. The Japanese delegation will unveil projects currently in development while also participating in case-study sessions that examine past co-productions between Japan and other nations. The agenda includes speed meetings and networking sessions designed to facilitate collaboration.
Continuing the Conversation
Organizers have opted for an additional day in the program to provide participants with ample opportunity to deepen their initial discussions. Follow-up sessions are being coordinated with the Japanese producers to advance conversations that begin during speed meetings into more detailed discussions about projects, production conditions, and potential partnerships.
ACFM Director’s Insight
ACFM Director Ellen Y.D. Kim remarked, “Japan today is Asia’s most dynamic co-production partner. 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 centered on grants and incentives.” She added, “Together with Japan, this year’s focus country, Producer Hub aims to serve as a platform offering producers across Asia tangible opportunities for collaboration.”
Future Plans and Participation
The Producer Hub intends to continue expanding its roster of partner organizations beyond the current 13 across 10 countries. Producers interested in international co-production can apply through the ACFM website until August 31.
Key Dates for the 2026 Event
The ACFM will run alongside the 31st Busan International Film Festival from October 10 to 13, following the festival’s opening from October 6 to 15. In a testament to its growing influence, Japan also held the prestigious country of honor title at this year’s Cannes Film Market.
