Also known as the ‘battle for eyeballs,’ China’s plan is to outrun Netflix.. The global streaming giant Netflix, known for its vast content library and original productions, faces fierce competition from local platforms uniquely tailored to Asian audiences.
Platforms like iQIYI, Tencent Video, and Hotstar are gaining ground, offering localised content and innovative strategies. With Asia projected to account for over half of global streaming subscribers by 2030, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Can the growing number of users on these platforms outpace Netflix in Asia? How likely is it that this will lead to a full-fledged streaming revolution? And what challenges lie ahead?
Let us explore how Asia is rewriting the rules of the streaming game.
Asia’s Number of Viewers: Battling for Dominance, or is there more to it?
Streaming dominance is something all platforms have since Asia faces billions of active viewers. Platforms like China’s iQIYI and Tencent Video, India’s Hotstar, and Southeast Asia’s Viu are reshaping how entertainment is consumed, offering local and more “relatable” content that resonates deeply with regional audiences.

With Asia projected to account for over half of global streaming subscribers by 2030, the region’s platforms are not just competing—they are rewriting the rules of the streaming game.
China’s Netflix Plan Ahead
Growth is driven by the rising popularity of on-demand and live-streaming platforms bolstered by high-speed internet availability. Key segments include Over-the-Top platforms, educational videos, and real-time broadcasting, enhanced by generative AI, machine learning, and large language models. These advancements enable content personalisation and improved video quality.
The market caters to diverse sectors such as sports, esports, healthcare, online learning, and advertising-based models. Services are shifting from traditional pay-TV to subscription-based revenue streams. Mobile phones and social media are central, offering branding opportunities and mobile-centric advertising as significant revenue sources.
Cloud-based solutions, low latency and on-demand media are making streaming more accessible. Content services, smart TVs, and mobile platforms remain key enablers. The future of video streaming will focus on improving user experiences, content quality, and innovative revenue models.
Be sure to read more on that here: Video Streaming Market Analysis China – Size and Forecast 2024-2028
Strength of Market Competition
Since Netflix has boosted its content in the region, does that mean it’s competing with other platforms and “fighting” for dominance? Experts say that, though a unique and reputable platform, Netflix faces a tough competitor. However, this fight has more to do with culture, strategy, and adaptation struggle rather than simple sums.
Although Netflix appeals to a worldwide audience, local platforms have a significant advantage due to their in-depth knowledge of local customers. This awareness mainly helps them tell relevant stories.
Asia’s streaming revolution is still ongoing. One thing is for sure… Asia will significantly impact the future of global entertainment even if there is no clear winner.
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