Cartoon Revolution: A glimpse at ComicCon Russia

World
Europe

01:41

Thousands of gaming fans in elaborate costumes have descended on ComicCon Russia, the largest event of its kind in Eastern Europe. Russian businesses are using the event to showcase their work as they look to Asia for expansion opportunities. Julia Chapman reports from Moscow.

Superheroes and terrifying creatures at every turn. It can only be ComicCon, a geek entertainment gathering that pulls in more than 150 thousand visitors.

JULIA CHAPMAN MOSCOW "ComicCon is an event usually associated with American-style superheroes, but it's an increasingly global affair. Here in Russia, geek culture is fuelling a rapidly-growing industry, and it's one with huge export potential."

Russian cartoon-makers Riki Group are already exporting to China. And they've even signed a deal with Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba.

ILYA POPOV RIKI GROUP "Every time we present our brands, it comes very well to European market but at the same time comes very well for the Asian market."

Russians are predicted to spend some 1.7 billion dollars this year on games alone. And the industry is gaining international recognition Many Russian entertainment groups see Asia as the ideal market for expansion. And as demand inside Russia grows, these companies are setting their sights even higher. Julia Chapman, CGTN, Moscow.