The second annual edition of the JAFF Market opened in Yogyakarta this morning with a 40% increase in accreditations to 1,400 and 16% more companies with stands on the exhibition floor than for the inaugural event last year. 116 companies are exhibiting this year, and an additional 120 companies are participating in the three-day event. 

"We are creating a reliable and structured, future-oriented industry platform that is more than a gathering space," market director Linda Gozali said during the opening ceremony.

"We believe that the market exists as a strategic bridge connecting projects, talents, companies and investors from Indonesia, and Southeast Asia to the regional and even the global industry," she added. 

The JAFF Market is part of the Yogyakarta Film Festival, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. 

Gozali said the festival has "steadily shaped regional cinematic identity". She described the market as a "complementary feature" that "marked the importance of Indonesia as part of the filmmaking industry". 

"Where the festival celebrates completed works, the market nurtures works in progress through IP development, project matchmaking, co-production investments, financing pathways and long-term industry partnerships. It is here that ideas find direction, strategies find momentum and creative ambition meets real pathways to production and distribution," she said. 

"The Indonesian film industry is currently experiencing a defining momentum. With local films sustaineing a strong domestic box office share of at least 60%, a steadily growing production pipeline, and expanding audience demand, Indonesia  has emerged as one of the most dynamic and competitive content markets in the Asia Pacific. The rise of IP creators, expanding exhibition offerings, and increasing global interest signal a pivotal moment in our evolution," she added.