Japan Readies Major Industry Showcase as 2026 Cannes Market Country of Honor

Japan will take the spotlight at next year’s Cannes market, the business hub of the Cannes Film Festival, after being named the 2026 Country of Honor — a recognition that will see the nation lead the market’s opening festivities and mount a large-scale showcase of its film, animation, and content industries.

The plans were outlined at a press conference during the ongoing Tokyo International Film Festival by Junichi Sakamoto, chair of the executive committee for Japan, Country of Honor 2026, and Guillaume Esmiol, executive director of the Cannes market. The 2026 edition will run May 12–20 alongside the 79th Cannes Film Festival.

As Country of Honor, Japan will co-host the market’s opening night — an industry gala drawing more than 1,200 global delegates — and feature across its flagship programs. A series of panels, networking sessions, and project showcases will highlight Japanese animation, genre cinema, and co-production opportunities. The slate will also include a Japan…