On September 25, the State Council Information Office held a press conference on China's "high-quality achievements during the 14th Five-Year Plan period." Han Dong, Vice Minister of the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA), revealed that, according to market estimates, China's mini series user base had reached 696 million as of July this year. The market size, which hit 50 billion yuan last year, is expected to see an even greater breakthrough in 2024.
Han Dong highlighted that to foster the industry growth, the NRTA has strengthened thematic guidance and provided creative support. A number of quality works, such as Shi Cheng Shan Hai (Contenders) and Qu Tao Hua Sheng Kai De Di Fang (Go to the Place Where Peach Blossoms Bloom), have stood out, demonstrating a trend toward richer content and higher production quality. The Administration has also launched the "Mini Series+" initiative, featuring activities such as "Learning Law through Mini Series" and "Exploring Intangible Cultural Heritage in Mini Series," further expanding the range of subjects and empowering multiple sectors. In addition, local governments have stepped up support, with 14 provinces and regions rolling out policies that leverage resource integration and creative guidance, driving the high-quality development of mini series nationwide.
Addressing irregularities in the mini series industry, Han Dong noted that the NRTA has established a tiered classification and management system to regulate the sector and is drafting the Mini Series Administrative Measures. These regulations, to be issued as departmental regulations, will provide a solid legal framework for industry development. In addition, the Administration is implementing targeted rectification campaigns alongside routine oversight to swiftly address non-compliant content. Oversight measures are being further refined to tackle issues that have drawn public concern, including absurd plotlines, stereotypical "overbearing CEO" characters, and sensationalized titles.
"Next, we will take stronger measures to promote the healthy development of mini series. High-quality production, mass appeal, and internationalization are the future directions," said Han Dong. He elaborated: first, advancing high-quality content by strengthening creative guidance, optimizing resource allocation, and supporting works that celebrate determined lives and reflect the spirit of the times; second, boosting mass appeal by organizing public participation initiatives to stimulate creativity and innovation in this emerging form of popular art; and third, promoting internationalization by encouraging wider global exchange and dissemination of mini series to foster cross-cultural dialogue.
Dong Xin, Vice Minister of the National Radio and Television Administration (NRTA), stated that during the 14th Five-Year Plan period, the export of Chinese audiovisual programs and services has increased by more than 40%. The International editions of Chinese audiovisual platforms now reached over 200 countries and regions, generating more than $63 billion in annual overseas revenue. To date, over 300 Chinese mini series apps have been launched on overseas platforms.
