In a vibrant ceremony in Beijing on February 13, China’s film sector took a bold step forward with the launch of the 2026 Film Economy Promotion Year. Spearheaded by the National Film Bureau and China Media Group (CMG) under the Ministry of Commerce’s guidance, the event signals a strategic push to amplify the industry’s economic impact.
Key figures such as CMG’s Director Shen Haixiong and Vice Commerce Minister Yan Tong graced the occasion, underscoring governmental commitment to cultural industries.
The film’s economic footprint was laid bare with 2025 figures showing the industry chain surpassing 8.1 trillion yuan in output. From merchandise to media synergies, films are integral to China’s multifaceted growth story.
Looking ahead, the promotion year will roll out diverse campaigns in various fields to spike consumption and support broader development objectives. Expect everything from themed festivals to digital marketing drives tailored to heighten public interest.
Stealing the spotlight, representatives from official bodies, financial institutions, and streaming giants pledged a minimum of 1.02 billion yuan in subsidies. This funding lifeline aims to revitalize market dynamics, foster new projects, and draw crowds back to theaters.
Notably, China’s dominance in LED cinema tech—home to more such screens than anywhere else—promises immersive experiences that could propel ticket sales skyward.
This initiative isn’t just about movies; it’s a blueprint for leveraging entertainment as an economic powerhouse, with ripple effects expected across retail, hospitality, and beyond.