Chinese TV shows find new growth avenues in Arabian nations

Veterans, whose average age is more than 78, salute to the spectators during the military parade marking the 70th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, in Beijing, Sept 3, 2015. [Photo/www.news.cn]

Chadia Khedhir, a senior official of Tunisia Television Station, said that her channel has already sourced three TV programs from China.

"The first is a reality show centered on Arab nations which was broadcast in the summer," she said. "The second is a program about Chinese food, and the third is a popular Chinese romantic drama," she said without revealing any more details.

According to Khedhir, interest for China-centric programs is particularly high among the young people in Tunisia. "However, it will take some time to grow a huge captive audience."

Yang Di, an official at the international sales department of the China Radio, Film & Television Programs Exchange Center, said: "Enthusiasm for Chinese romantic dramas is increasing in Arab nations. Most of these nations have been exposed to South Korean TV programs and are now keen on watching similar content from China. Interest is particularly high for programs that deal with romantic issues of young people."

Yang said the center has also started selling documentaries and other China-centric programs to Arab nations. "TV content sales to Arab nations will grow substantially as the Silk Road initiative seeks to build lasting bonds in economy and culture," he said.

Citing examples, Yang said romantic dramas like Diamond Lover, Youth of Ice and Fire and Destined to Love You are gaining in popularity in the Arab world. Interest for documentaries such as A Bite of Chinese Spring Festival is also high, he said.

China is also looking to cooperate with Arab nations in video news content. China has already started to provide downloadable video news contents to other countries, according to Gao Wei, managing director of CCTV News Content Co Ltd.