Have you ever thought about how a country decides what kind of economy works best for its people? It’s not just about money—more like it is deeply rooted in political choices. Decision-makers who sometimes can be the government or people with power, would choose a system that they believe benefits the culture and society the most to ensuring the couuntry’s economic stability, especially media and entertainment, an industry that provides massive contribution to a nation’s economy. The government guides the industries in some cases, for example, decisions about what media to produce or promote depends on what leaders believe will serve the public good rather than individual interests according to Lee, M& Jin, DY. These choices shape how streaming functions and how people across content, speaking as someone experienced firsthand streaming journey in China.

Streaming services like Netflix are a huge part of global entertainment, however in China, the experience is a bit different. It is becoming common that I found myself explaining to friends in the UK that we don’t have Netflix in China but we have platforms like iQiyi, Youku, Tencent, bilibili which operating as the “Chinese Netflix” that dominates the streaming landscape there. These platforms offers a mix of original shows, exclusive variety programs and local content tailored for just Chinese audiences.

But I kept asking myself why isn’t Netflix available in China? Until recently I found more reasonable explanations through learning the theories and approaches of media economic. I believe the answer lies in strict government regulations. China has very tight controls over media content to ensure it aligns with its domestic values and culture. Chinese government supports its homegrown platforms, giving them the space to flourish in a protected market instead of providing entrance for international platforms.

Since a few major platforms takes over most of the market in Chinese media field. According to Lee, M& Jin, DY‘s understanding of media business, it’s what the economists call an “oligopoly,” where the main players dominate the whole industry. These platforms compete viciously but in distinct ways. For example, companies like IQIYI, Youku, Tencent, bilibili invest heavily in producing exclusive content that makes sure the viewers can’t find anywhere else. In addition, they tailor to different user groups with benefits like membership benefits and interactive experiences. Even though they function a lot like Netflix, their approach is deeply localized. In some cases, media content is even regulated and closely reviewed to meet government standards.

For global platforms like Netflix to enter China, it faces serious challenges for just to get the content approved. But despite the barriers, Netflix found its ways to reach Chinese audiences indirectly. Netflix has contents that partnered with local platforms like iQiyi to present to Chinese audiences. However, most of the time accessing Netflix directly in China requires the use of a VPN (a virtual private network) that you can easily install from the app store, but it has its own set of challenges. Using a VPN to stream Netflix in China is a bit of a legal gray area. While Netflix’s policies don’t allow it and might suspend your account, but that’s not the same as breaking the laws. Inside China, unapproved VPNs are technically illegal because they bypass the government’s internet controls. However, users are not targeted in this case, enforcement tends to target VPN providers, but it doesn’t mean it has no risks.

If you managed to access Netflix, there’s another hurdle —- the content itself. Netflix’s library is packed with global shows and movies, mostly from the U.S. and the U.K., with simplified or tradition Chinese are the native languages in most of the Chinese population, it’s not always easy when the Chinese subtitles are not available. With the young population like me that knows English as a second language, turn on the subtitle is essential while watching video contents, that means there’s an extra step of translation the English subtitles in our head while watching, which can be frustrating and takes away some of the fun of simply relaxing with a show.

Overall, in China’s case, the government’s decision to regulate foreign media and promote local platforms isn’t just about entertainment—it’s part of a larger strategy to protect its economy and culture. These choices reflect what a nation values. In a communist system, for example, property and resources are seen as “people-owned,” but the state plays a central role in deciding how they’re managed. This centralized approach ensures that industries like media serve national priorities, even if it limits the variety of content available to individuals. China’s government has designed its streaming market to be self-sufficient. By supporting domestic platforms, it creates a space for local businesses to thrive while keeping out global competitors like Netflix. This strategy not only strengthens the local economy but also ensures that the content aligns with cultural values.

It’s showcasing that the entertainment we enjoy isn’t just shaped by what viewers like me want—it’s also deeply influenced by the political and economic decisions made by those in power. Whether we’re talking about streaming platforms, movies, or even fashion, these industries don’t exist in a vacuum. They reflect the values and priorities of the societies that create them.