Fresh off the global debut of Black Myth: Wukong, the first edition of the Animation-Comic-Game (ACG) Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) 2024 event has captivated audiences worldwide. This groundbreaking festival has significantly enhanced the integrated development of global influence, animation creativity, digital technology, and the cultural and tourism industries within the GBA.

Held at the Futian Convention and Exhibition Center in Shenzhen from September 15 to 17, the three-day festival featured a diverse array of exhibitors and performers from around the world, including France, Argentina, Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Singapore. Special events, such as a classic animation music festival and an Asia-Pacific cosplay carnival, added to the excitement.

Guided by the China Animation Comic Game Group, the festival is a collaborative effort between the Greater Bay Area (Shenzhen) Branch of the National Animation Creative Research and Development Center and the Organizing Committee of Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong. Its primary goal is to establish a world-class event that will elevate the global influence of the Greater Bay Area's animation and video game industries.

Read more: 'Black Myth: Wukong' attracts 1.2 million gamers within hours of release

Global release of new products

ACG GBA 2024 has successfully positioned the Greater Bay Area as a thriving hub for animation, comics and games, fostering innovation, collaboration and cultural exchange.

This marks the first time in 25 years that Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong has been held in Shenzhen. Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong, formerly known as the Hong Kong Comics Festival, has been held annually at the end of July since 1999.

Leung Chung-pun, chief executive of the Animation-Comic-Game Hong Kong organizing committee, expressed enthusiasm for bringing Hong Kong's mature animation industry to Shenzhen.

"The launch of the festival is a small step for us. We hope that we can take a big step forward in the exchange and integration of animation culture between the two places in the future," said Leung, adding that anime culture is global and that the mission behind launching the event is to promote cultural exchanges.

ACG GBA 2024 aims to be a hotbed for global product premieres. A variety of activities, including the classical comic cartoon music festival, the Asia-Pacific cosplay carnival, the e-sports show, and a card game competition, ensure that enthusiasts have a fully immersive experience.

Many Hong Kong companies in the sector are capitalizing on the event, viewing it as an opportunity to expand their reach into the Chinese mainland market and enhance their brand visibility and competitiveness.

The event showcases a diverse range of products and IPs. Renowned brands such as Marvel, Transformers, Gundam, EVA, Disney, and the Three Kingdoms series are featured. Attendees can explore new models, limited editions, commemorative figures and exquisite peripherals from these and other popular franchises.

The festival serves as a platform for global product launches, with many comic fans eagerly awaiting the release of new trendy toys. The Hong Kong 3C Association noted that several member companies introduced new products at the event, with some showcasing over 20 new items, including global debuts.

National ACG research center

China's ACG industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, becoming a major player in the global market. Driven by increased consumer spending, technological advancements and government support, the industry has witnessed significant expansion and diversification.

To leverage the cultural and creative strengths of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, the National Animation Creativity Research and Development Center established a Greater Bay Area (GBA) branch in Shenzhen on September 3.

By collaborating with Hong Kong and Macao's robust international intellectual property rights and service trade systems, the GBA branch aims to comprehensively promote the aggregation and development of the animation and digital creative industries in southern China.

Hong Kong is actively working to develop its cultural and creative industries as part of its efforts to drive economic growth. The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, has implemented various programs to support businesses in adopting advanced technologies, forming industry partnerships, and fostering global exchanges.

One such program provides a subsidy of up to $30,700 to selected cartoon firms for production and promotion.

The National ACG research center has played a pivotal role in driving the growth and development of the ACG industry within the country. Established to foster innovation and promote the integration of culture, technology and creativity, the center has undertaken a range of initiatives to support the industry.

"The GBA region has a significant influence on and strong consumption power in the animation industry," said Chen Xuehui, deputy general manager of China Animation Comic Game Group.