Chinese streaming platform iQIYI posted strong international growth in the first half of 2026, reporting a 130 percent year-on-year increase in global viewership as Chinese dramas and micro dramas continued to attract audiences across multiple regions.

The company unveiled its Global Trending Content rankings on 9 July, highlighting the titles that resonated most with viewers worldwide. According to iQIYI, the growth was fueled by its dual-content strategy of offering both premium long-form series and bite-sized micro dramas, supported by localization efforts that include subtitles in 13 languages, dubbed versions, and fan events in key territories.

The platform also credited its expanding catalog of productions from China, Thailand, South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia and other Asian markets for strengthening its international reach.

Among its biggest performers during the first half of the year was the historical drama Pursuit of Jade, which topped the overall content rankings. The series also emerged as the most searched Chinese historical drama on Google globally since 2025, driven by its female empowerment storyline and visually rich presentation.

Several fan favorites from 2025 also maintained their popularity, with Fated Hearts, The Best Thing and Speed and Love returning to the list of the platform's most-watched Chinese dramas.

Micro dramas likewise continued to gain momentum among international viewers. Characterized by short episodes and fast-paced storytelling, the format has become increasingly popular among mobile audiences. Leading the category was Midnight Temptation, whose story of female empowerment and personal growth helped it become the platform's top-performing micro drama worldwide.

The company said audience preferences vary across regions. Southeast Asia remains one of the strongest markets for Chinese dramas, with localized dubbing and in-person fan activities contributing to sustained viewership. In Thailand, several Chinese series with Thai-language dubbing made the local Top 10 rankings.

Meanwhile, viewers in Japan and South Korea have shown growing interest in micro dramas, with the format accounting for half of the top-performing titles in both countries. In Latin America, expanded Spanish- and Portuguese-language dubbing has helped introduce more Asian content to new audiences, while viewers in the Middle East continue to favor realistic and military-themed dramas.

Beyond scripted series, iQIYI also reported continued interest in Asian animation, films, and variety shows as it broadens its content offerings for international subscribers.

Looking ahead, the streaming platform said it plans to further strengthen its position as a global destination for Asian entertainment by expanding its library and enhancing localized viewing experiences for audiences around the world.