In a release put out on the eve of its opening on May 13, Cannes Marché du Film has unveiled record attendance against a complex geopolitical backdrop. It said 40,000 professionals were expected overall at the festival with 16,000 participants from 140 countries registered to attend, which is slightly up from 2025. The U.S., France and the UK will be the top three countries in terms of attendance, while Europe continues to lead as the most represented region. Asia is also out in force. This has been driven notably by Japan — this year’s Country of Honour — which has recorded a nearly 50% increase in attendance, to become the fifth most represented country at this year’s film market. The market said attendance from Sub-Saharan Africa was also gaining traction, with Benin taking a stand for the first time this year, while Latin America is also strongly represented, notably through activities organized in collaboration with Ventana Sur.…