Netflix has confirmed that it will launch in Japan this autumn. To facilitate close partnerships with consumer electronics makers and to work with Japanese film and TV creators, the company will soon open a regional office in Tokyo.
Meanwhile, Gregory K. Peters, chief streaming and partnerships officer at Netflix since 2013 and a Japanese speaker, has been promoted to general manager of Netflix Japan.
Commenting on the upcoming launch, Reed Hastings, CEO at Netflix, said: “With its rich culture and celebrated creative traditions, Japan is a critical component of our plan to connect people around the world to stories they love.
“As we expand into Asia, we’re excited Netflix members increasingly will have access to some of their favourite movies and TV shows no matter where they are.”
Peters added: “It is an honour to bring Netflix to Japan, and we’ll work hard to please consumers there.
“People in Japan soon will have access to great entertainment from all over the world for a low monthly price, while our more than 57 million members will benefit from increased access to great Japanese films and TV shows.”
Netflix will make its debut in Australia and New Zealand next month and plans to complete its global rollout by the end of 2016.
In Japan, it will be serving a market with around 36 million broadband households.
