Amazon has released its first Culture and Creative Industries Impact Report, highlighting the company’s role in supporting creative industries worldwide. The report outlines three main areas where Amazon is making an impact: enabling creators to reach global audiences, enriching local economies, and expanding cultural access.
According to the report, Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform has allowed hundreds of thousands of independent authors outside the United States to connect with readers around the world. Over 2.8 million artists use Amazon Music to share their work with international listeners, while Prime Video delivers content in more than 250 languages. The company has invested in over 500 original audiovisual titles across Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific regions.
“Through Kindle Direct Publishing, we’ve enabled hundreds of thousands of independent authors outside the U.S. to reach global audiences. More than 2.8 million artists reach listeners worldwide through Amazon Music. And Prime Video delivers content in more than 250 languages, expanding access to audiences everywhere. These numbers—including over 500 original audiovisual titles with significant investments in local content across Europe, the Americas, and Asia-Pacific regions—reflect real opportunities for creators globally,” said an Amazon executive.
The report highlights examples such as a French author finding readers in Japan and an Australian series topping charts in 165 countries. It also notes that German musicians are building global fanbases through these platforms.
Amazon collaborates with local production companies and studios to develop original content that showcases diverse storytelling traditions. The company supports emerging Indigenous writers in Canada and sustainable production initiatives in the UK. International successes include Spain’s “Culpables” film franchise and Germany’s “Maxton Hall” television series.
“These aren’t just business relationships—they’re investments in creative economies,” according to Amazon.
The company emphasizes its commitment to supporting creative talent by investing in infrastructure and technology designed for creatives. This approach aims to help build a vibrant global landscape while respecting local communities.
The streaming industry contributes significantly to job creation in various regions. In India, a report from Media Partners Asia found that streaming generates about 170,000 direct and indirect jobs annually—a figure expected to rise to approximately 280,000 by 2028 (https://www.mediapartnersasia.com/). Productions like “The Rig,” filmed at FirstStage Studios in Scotland with more than 80% local crew members, support skills development and infrastructure investment.
Investments from productions can stimulate local businesses and turn filming locations into tourist destinations. Examples include Berkshire and Surrey in England (“The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power”), Madya Pradesh in India (“Gullak”), and Pitigliano in Italy (“Dinner Club”).
Digital services are also improving cultural access for people living far from physical bookstores or entertainment venues. Research from Oxford Economics shows that between 60% and 65% of rural citizens in Europe find it easier to access books and e-books thanks to e-commerce (https://www.oxfordeconomics.com/).
