Visa Denies Purchases from Japanese Retailers with Adult Titles to Protect Brand Reputation
Visa has recently come under fire for its decision to deny purchases from Japanese retailers that sell adult manga titles. The credit card company has stated that this move is aimed at protecting its brand reputation, but critics argue that it could have far-reaching implications for the manga industry.
The controversy first came to light during a briefing in Osaka, where Visa’s Head of Product Asia Pacific, Cietan Kitney, addressed the issue during a Q&A session. Kitney explained that while Visa aims to make its services widely available, they may deny certain purchases to safeguard the brand. This decision is based on a combination of global and local policies that dictate what can be bought using Visa cards.
Several prominent Japanese retailers, including Manga Library Z, Melonbooks, and Toranoana, have been affected by Visa’s policies. Some have altered their product offerings to comply with the restrictions, while others have been forced to close their doors. Ken Akamatsu, a mangaka and founder of Manga Library Z, expressed concerns about the potential impact on Japanese content if it becomes too globalized.
In addition to Visa, Mastercard has also been reluctant to engage in transactions with certain Japanese retailers, depending on the nature of the content being sold. The situation has sparked a debate about the balance between cultural norms and global standards in the manga industry.
Danica Davidson, an author and manga enthusiast, has highlighted the importance of preserving the unique charm of Japanese content in the face of increasing globalization. She emphasizes the need to find a balance that honors cultural diversity while meeting the demands of a global audience. Davidson’s insights shed light on the complexities of the situation and the potential implications for the future of the manga industry.
