Cinema

Over 16,000 filmmakers gather at Marché du Film, Cannes 2026

US, UK and France top participation in world’s leading film marketplace

By | May 13, 2026 | New Delhi

Over 16,000 filmmakers gather at Marché du Film, Cannes 2026

Asia is gaining strong momentum, driven notably by Japan, this year’s Country of Honour, which records a nearly 50 pc increase in attendance

The 2026 Marché du Film has brought together 16,000 film professionals from 140 countries in Cannes, reaffirming why the world’s film industry turns to Cannes, not simply for glamour but for business, investment and the next wave of global storytelling.
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The Marché du Film, the Cannes Film Festival’s business counterpart, began on Tuesday with record worldwide participation, bringing together 16,000 registered film professionals from over 140 countries. In a press statement, the organisers say the event further cements its place as the world’s leading marketplace for film sales, project funding and global industry networking. 

The statement adds that the United States, France and the United Kingdom remain the top three countries in terms of attendance, while Europe continues to lead as the most represented region.

Asia is gaining strong momentum, driven notably by Japan, this year’s Country of Honour, which records a nearly 50 pc increase in attendance, becoming the fifth most represented country at this year’s film market, adds the statement.

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The statement adds that growth is accelerating across regions. Iraq returns to the Village International, Egypt doubles its presence, and Benin debuts at the Palais des Festivals. Latin America is strongly represented, with activities in collaboration with Ventana Sur.

Guillaume Esmiol

“The Marché du Film is first and foremost a place of action, structured around three essential pillars: the global marketplace for film sales, a platform where projects are created and financed, and a hub for sharing knowledge and expertise where the industry collectively shapes its future,” says Guillaume Esmiol, Executive Director, Marché du Film.