Thailand★Strong Japanese Content: Major Rights Holders Expand

In Thailand, where pirated anime, movies, and dramas are rampant and copyright protection is inadequate, major copyright management company Dream Express (DEX) is steadily growing its business by managing and expanding Japanese content like Ultraman and Kamen Rider. This was reported by NNA, which distributes economic information across Asia.

DEX was established in 1999 as a copyright management company. According to Panida Teawaksorn, the company's director, they began operations with the TV broadcast of "Mobile Fighter G Gundam." The response was strong. Subsequently, broadcasts of "Kamen Rider Agito" and "Kamen Rider Ryuki" also generated significant buzz, leading to a flood of requests for character licensing from manufacturers of school snacks and milk. This established a successful pattern: aligning character strategies with TV broadcasts to secure sponsors. This approach fueled the company's substantial growth.

As a new strategy, the company is focusing on strengthening its digital business. It launched the website "DEX Channel" and began video-on-demand (VOD) distribution. This site allows paid subscriptions for viewing per episode, weekly, monthly, or yearly, accessible via PC or smartphone. The aim is to redirect viewers who previously consumed content via DVD or rental services to this channel.

Furthermore, this year marks the 36th anniversary of the Mobile Suit Gundam series. Under the concept of "fathers and children enjoying together," the company aims to actively pursue adult fans.

Regarding recent content trends, Panida noted, "US content like 'The Avengers' and 'Frozen' is popular and gaining market share." However, he emphasized, "Thais, being fellow Asians, are familiar with and fond of Japanese stories and culture, so Japanese content remains strong." Content ranges from depictions of everyday life like "Crayon Shin-chan" and "Chibi Maruko-chan" to action and fantasy that spark the imagination, such as Ultraman and Kamen Rider. He analyzed the strength of Japanese content, stating, "The appeal lies above all in the compelling stories," and expressed confidence in future business expansion.