At this point in the year, as it comes to an end, we summarize the results we have achieved in connecting Western and Asian companies, as well as in licensing and content businesses. We have to note that there are several.
The global licensing industry is at a pivotal point. While Asia has become the leading creative and commercial hub worldwide, projected to hold over 42% of the technology licensing market share by 2035 and supporting a webtoons industry expected to reach $97.19 billion by 2033, many Western companies are still working to understand this dynamic ecosystem. Licensing Magazine has positioned itself as a key connector between these markets, recognizing that success in the coming decade depends on genuine communication between Eastern and Western licensing professionals.
Asia’s Ascendant Market Position
The statistics reveal an intriguing story. The Asia-Pacific region accounts for 28.9% of the global webtoons market and continues to lead in digital content creation. South Korea, China, and Japan together form the hub of intellectual property growth, with K-pop and related content generating substantial business — K-pop tours alone increased by 79% in the first half of 2025 compared to 2024. The China Licensing Expo, the largest licensing trade show in Asia, drew over 99,000 professional visitors in 2025, featuring 566 exhibitors and more than 2,600 intellectual properties.
Recognizing this crucial gap, Licensing Magazine organized the first-ever international delegation to attend the China Licensing Expo in October 2025, bringing together respected industry leaders from Europe, the Middle East, and the United States. This groundbreaking effort was more than just a trade show visit — it demonstrated a deliberate commitment to promoting meaningful East-West dialogue. The delegation’s members explored tangible partnerships and innovative licensing projects, gaining direct exposure to Chinese brands and business models.
Building Infrastructure for Cross-Cultural Exchange
Beyond the delegation, Licensing Magazine has invested in structural B2B communication channels to promote ongoing dialogue. The publication launched a dedicated WeChat channel (WeChat LM ASIA), making it the only major licensing publication with a specific Asian market section called “Focus on Asia,” along with a dedicated LinkedIn Newsletter, the current one. This infrastructure keeps the industry informed about licensing news and insights from China, Korea, and Japan.
Additionally, Licensing Magazine has established itself as an authoritative bridge for international media representation at Asian events. It is featured in the Chinese Edition of Licensing Magazine. It offers global companies targeted exposure opportunities at Asian events through our special initiatives, including conferences and international delegations. For Asian companies, this same platform provides unprecedented access to Western companies’ networks and decision-makers.
A Foundation for Future Collaboration
By positioning itself at the crossroads of East-West licensing dialogue, Licensing Magazine recognizes a key industry truth: the most valuable intellectual properties and licensing opportunities increasingly need multicultural storytelling and cross-regional distribution.
The initiatives undertaken—the international delegation, WeChat presence, dedicated Asian market coverage, and facilitated networking—are more than just promotional activities. They form vital infrastructure for the increasingly connected global licensing industry. As Western companies recognize the business importance of Asian partnerships and Asian creators seek sustainable ways to expand internationally, Licensing Magazine’s role as a bridge-builder becomes strategically essential.
For 2026, in addition to confirming the media coverage already developed this year, we plan to strengthen our position in the Asian market by increasing the number of events we participate in as Media Partners, not only to ensure our presence, promotion, and editorial coverage but also expanding special initiatives and invite more international professionals to join us and explore what the Asian market has to offer.
In the next few days, we will take a short break, but we will return at the beginning of January with new content, analysis, and initiatives to keep connecting the Asian and Western markets.
Happy holidays to everyone!
Cristina







