Credit Card Use Halted at Doujinshi Chain Store: Latest Updates
Another Japanese business, Melonbooks, a chain store specializing in doujinshi, has announced that it will no longer accept Visa and Mastercard payments starting December 16. Customers can still use American Express or JCB for their purchases. Melonbooks is currently in talks with Visa and Mastercard to resolve the issue, particularly for their physical stores in Japan. Additionally, they are planning to introduce a new payment method called Melob Store Payment, which will only be available for in-store purchases, leaving overseas customers at a disadvantage.
This decision comes shortly after the news that manga creator Ken Akamatsu’s Manga Library Z will be closing on November 26 due to pressure from credit card companies. The companies are concerned about the explicit and controversial content of some manga titles being purchased through their systems. Akamatsu has been critical of this move, expressing concerns that further restrictions may be imposed in the future, potentially impacting the diversity and appeal of Japanese content globally.
Despite the challenges, Akamatsu is determined to find alternative solutions to keep Manga Library Z operational. However, an unnamed executive from a manga retailer has suggested reducing the platform’s reliance on adult content to align with global standards and expand the market.
This is not the first time a Japanese chain store dealing with doujinshi has faced restrictions on credit card payments. Toranoana, another chain store, stopped accepting Visa and Mastercard on August 13, indicating a growing trend in the industry.
As the debate continues between content creators, retailers, and credit card companies, the future of doujinshi stores and manga libraries remains uncertain. The impact of these payment restrictions on the industry and the broader discussion around global standards versus cultural diversity are crucial considerations moving forward.
Danica Davidson, an accomplished author and expert in manga art, provides valuable insights into the world of Japanese comics and the challenges faced by creators and retailers. Her work serves as a testament to the cultural significance and artistic value of manga, highlighting the importance of preserving its unique charm amidst evolving global standards.
For more information on Danica Davidson and her contributions to the manga industry, visit www.danicadavidson.com.
