The Cannes Marché du Film is set to strengthen its commitment to animation with the launch of Cannes Animation, a new initiative debuting at the 2026 edition of the market (15-17 May). Building on the foundations of Animation Day, the expanded format aims to provide a broader platform for animated works and professionals, reinforcing the Cannes Film Festival’s status as a key meeting point for the global animation community.

The initiative also builds on a collaboration first established in 2019 between the Marché du Film and the Annecy International Animation Film Festival, widely regarded as the leading global event dedicated to animation. Since then, Annecy has curated a dedicated animation programme in Cannes, serving as a bridge between artistic creation and industry, and offering a platform for projects in development to connect with international partners.

At the core of Cannes Animation is the Annecy Animation Showcase, which will once again present five animated works in progress from around the world to an audience of sales agents, distributors and festival programmers. The session will take place at Palais K, while the broader programme of panels and talks will unfold across the Main Stage and the Plage des Palmes, integrating animation more prominently into the Marché’s central venues.

The 2026 edition introduces an expanded conference strand with a particular focus on Japanese animation, in line with Japan’s status as the Marché du Film’s Country of Honour (see the news). Panels and keynotes will explore the international success of anime, evolving distribution strategies and the creative approaches of major players, such as Toei Animation.

Japan’s presence is coordinated by the Executive Committee for Japan, Country of Honour, in collaboration with the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), institutions actively supporting the international expansion of Japan’s cultural and creative industries through trade, investment and strategic partnerships.

Beyond presentations and talks, Cannes Animation places a clear emphasis on community-building and professional exchange. A dedicated workshop on financing animation, led by ACE Producers, will address production cycles, investment structures and market dynamics.

Cannes Animation is organised in partnership with the Annecy Festival, German Films and Unifrance, and further details and additional animation-focused events are expected to be announced in the coming weeks as the full programme continues to take shape.