Global manga


Global manga refers to published sequential art that is created outside of Japan, yet is recognized by both creators and readers as "manga," despite lacking direct creative input from Japanese artists, publishers, or companies. This phenomenon is also referred to by other terms, including "international manga", a term used by the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs for foreign comics that adopt manga’s style and storytelling, even in other languages.
In essence, global manga consists of works that adopt the visual and narrative conventions of manga but are created outside Japan, without the involvement of Japanese artists, publishers, or companies. This differentiates it from Japanese manga that is simply exported or translated. The key feature of global manga is its autonomous production, reflecting local interpretations of the manga techniques across different regions of the world.

Production, characteristics, and purpose

Global manga is created in distinct production contexts, ranging from works designed for an international audience to transnational collaborations blending artistic influences, as well as hyperlocal projects integrating manga aesthetics into specific cultural settings.
It is produced independently of Japanese artists, publishers, or companies, focusing on the creative and publishing process rather than mere visual resemblance. While adopting core stylistic and narrative conventions of Japanese manga—such as character design, panel composition, and storytelling techniques—global manga also incorporates local cultural elements, resulting in hybrid narratives that reflect regional identities.
Its production stems from artistic expression, as creators infuse their personal and cultural perspectives into their work; market demand, with publishers commissioning original content to reach diverse readerships; and economic considerations, as competition and financial pressures influence the growth of the global manga industry.

Reception and challenges

Despite its growth, global manga faces challenges related to authenticity and commercial viability.Some critics question whether it can be considered "real" manga, debating its legitimacy compared to Japanese works, while others highlight the financial difficulties it faces due to audience expectations and industry barriers.
At the same time, global manga has played a key role in cultural exchange and artistic adaptation, showcasing how manga aesthetics evolve worldwide and integrate with diverse storytelling traditions.

Regional trends

Various regions have developed their own interpretations of global manga, shaped by local artistic influences and market trends. In Southeast Asia, countries such as the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia produce manga-inspired comics that incorporate elements of indigenous storytelling traditions. Brazil has a long-established history of global manga production, with works emerging as early as the 1960s.Meanwhile, France, Italy, and Germany have developed some of the largest manga markets outside Japan. France, in particular, is recognized for both its Nouvelle Manga movement, which unites European and Japanese comic creators, highlighting the intersection of their respective artistic traditions, as well the separate Manfra tradition of French artists inspired by Japanese manga.

Related terms

Several terms describe manga influenced works created outside Japan: