The impact of the streaming industry on Taiwan’s creative economy has been significant, with a new report revealing that it has contributed NT$9.7 billion to the economy and supported over 100,000 jobs. The findings were presented by international consulting firm Frontier Economics at a forum organized by the Motion Picture Association in Taipei.
According to the report, video-on-demand platforms have become a crucial part of Taiwan’s audiovisual ecosystem, with over 7 million subscribers. The study also found that 87% of internet users in Taiwan access VOD services weekly, with locally produced content accounting for nearly half of viewing activity.
The increase in local consumption has led major global streaming platforms to invest heavily in Taiwanese programming. Clive Kenny, an economist at Frontier Economics, stated that Taiwan’s audiovisual sector has a promising future due to its mature economic environment and energetic VOD industry.
In 2021, the film and television sector directly employed over 31,000 people, with ripple effects supporting around 103,000 jobs. However, participants at the forum warned that the global streaming landscape is entering a “post-growth period” marked by industry consolidation and rising subscription prices.
James Cheatley, MPA VP of VOD, emphasized the importance of collaborative approaches over restrictive regulations to sustain the momentum of Taiwan’s creative economy. He highlighted the need for market incentives and skillful investment guidance to support local stories and talent.
Emerging commercial models are accelerating local content development, according to National Taiwan University economics professor Feng Bohan. Lower-priced, ad-supported plans have led to increased viewing of local content, attracting new users who prefer local-language programming.
Streaming platforms are also elevating production standards and upskilling Taiwan’s creators, as noted by Atomic 76 managing director Yang Zhiguang. However, the Frontier Economics study warned that heavy-handed regulatory approaches could undermine the sector’s export potential.
Participants at the forum suggested strengthening copyright protection, supporting talent development, and providing production incentives to attract further investment and establish Taiwan’s globally influential “T-Wave.” The report was commissioned by the MPA and conducted by Frontier Economics, with member studios including major players like Walt Disney Studios, Netflix Studios, and Warner Bros. Discovery.
Overall, the streaming industry has had a profound impact on Taiwan’s creative sector, driving economic growth, supporting jobs, and elevating the production standards of local content. By fostering collaboration and innovation, Taiwan can continue to thrive in the ever-evolving world of streaming entertainment.
