Imax’s Strategic Shift in Asia: A New Era of Growth

The recent performance of Imax paints a clear picture of a company in the midst of a significant transformation. With a record global box office of $1.28 billion in 2025, reflecting a remarkable 40% year-on-year increase, it’s evident that Imax is strategically repositioning itself in the Asian market.

Record Box Office Performance

What stands out in this achievement is that the Asia-Pacific region contributed nearly half of this total, with an astonishing 80% year-on-year growth. Here are some key figures that highlight this shift:

• China: Contributed $407 million, setting a new record and surpassing the previous best from 2019 by 5%.
• Asia (excluding China): Added $230 million, also a record high.

This diversification beyond a singular reliance on China is a strategic pivot that is reshaping Imax’s growth narrative.

A Balanced Growth Strategy

Giovanni Dolci, Imax’s Chief Commercial Officer, articulates this strategic shift succinctly. The era where one market dominated growth is over, and this balance is intentional. In 2025, Imax signed agreements for approximately 163 new locations, with contributions from various markets across Asia-Pacific and Europe. This diversification demonstrates a more resilient growth engine for the company.

China’s Evolving Role

While China remains a critical market with 797 Imax locations, it is clear that the focus is shifting. The growth now is more selective, targeting high-tier cities and retrofitting existing cinemas rather than solely expanding into new multiplexes. Notably, during the 2026 Lunar New Year, Imax captured 3.4% of the total box office, a significant achievement given its limited screen presence.

Success Stories Across Asia

Japan is a prime example of how Imax’s model is flourishing. The country delivered its highest-ever Imax box office in 2025 at $90.7 million, aided by a successful blend of Hollywood and local content. The expansion into suburban markets has proven beneficial, illustrating that a tailored approach can yield spectacular results.

Likewise, India presents a tantalizing opportunity with its massive population and under-screened market. With just 35 Imax locations currently, the potential for growth is immense. The recent success of local titles and the plan to expand into tier-two cities further signal a bright future for Imax in this region.

Emerging Markets: Indonesia and Vietnam

Both Indonesia and Vietnam have shown impressive growth, with Imax doubling its presence in Indonesia to 18 locations and achieving record box office numbers. In Vietnam, Imax’s first-ever Vietnamese-language titles signify a commitment to local content that resonates with audiences.

Challenges and Resilience in South Korea

However, not all markets are flourishing. South Korea’s overall box office has seen a decline, yet Imax has managed to maintain a steady performance. This resilience suggests that even in challenging markets, a strong offering can still attract audiences.

A Forward-Looking Content Strategy

Looking ahead, Imax plans to enhance its local language slate, aiming for 75 titles in 2026. This expansion is crucial as it underscores the company’s commitment to local content, which has proven to be a significant driver of box office success.

As we approach 2026, Imax anticipates a global box office of approximately $1.4 billion, alongside a substantial increase in system installations. With a solid foundation laid and a diversified portfolio, Imax appears well-positioned for continued growth.

In summary, Imax’s multifaceted approach—drawing from a variety of markets and content types—demonstrates a robust evolution. The appetite for Imax is indeed global, and as Dolci aptly summarizes, the growth story is no longer solely about China but a collaborative effort spanning multiple territories.

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