Major Chinese Comic Convention Bans Anime And Manga

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Japan is the birthplace of anime and has created many of the most popular series ever made. Though other countries, including North America, produce similar animation, Japan remains the main source of anime, which is becoming increasingly popular worldwide. Recently, however, China made a surprising announcement regarding one of its largest comic conventions: it will no longer allow manga or anime to be featured, a decision that shocked both those who planned to exhibit and attend.

I was really surprised to hear about the changes to Comicup’s upcoming event! Apparently, they’ve decided to completely focus on a ‘Chinese-style theme’ for their thirty-second show. I’ve seen reports that a lot of exhibitors had their booths cancelled because their work didn’t fit the new focus. The organizers said it’s due to wanting to be sensitive to the current climate and honor their cultural responsibilities. With around seven thousand booths, this is impacting a huge number of creators – it sounds like anyone showcasing work not from China is being affected. It’s especially tough because the convention is happening later this month, so it’s a really last-minute change for everyone involved.

The China/Japan Feud Explained

Relations between China and Japan are currently strained due to a number of issues. Recently, the situation escalated when Japan’s new Prime Minister, Takaichi Sanae, said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would be a serious threat to Japan’s survival. In response, China advised its citizens against traveling to Japan and has cancelled several Japanese-related events, like concerts and film releases. Interestingly, despite this tension, anime remains incredibly popular in China – especially the film Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle, which has become a massive hit and solidified its place as the most successful anime film ever.

This recent development is upsetting for anime fans, but it’s not the first time China has taken strong action regarding the art form. In 2023, a new law – the “Law on Penalties for Administration of Public Security” – led to a crackdown on anime cosplayers. The law prohibited clothing that could be seen as offensive to Chinese national pride. Although not specifically aimed at cosplay, an incident at a Chinese park where cosplayers were asked to leave led many to believe it was being targeted.

I’m really bummed out for some of the ComicUp exhibitors! With the event just around the corner, a lot of them are sharing how shocked and upset they are about the recent changes. One exhibitor explained it perfectly – she said she felt completely helpless and heartbroken. She’d been so excited to finally meet everyone in person and had been hoping for the best, even with the rumors about some properties being cut. But when the official announcement came, it just crushed her. It’s so tough when something you’ve been looking forward to for so long gets pulled out from under you.

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Via China Statistics

https://comicbook.com/anime/news/lord-of-mysteries-chinese-anime-donghua-greatest-isekai/embed/#

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2025-12-23 18:41