China to invest 6 billion yuan to support live-action micro-short dramas

China's National Radio and Television Administration has announced a major initiative to support live-action micro-short dramas following the rapid rise of AI-generated content. In the first eight months of the year, approximately 430,000 micro-short dramas were released—13 times the total from the previous year—with AI-generated productions accounting for over 90% of the market.

To preserve the industry ecosystem and address concerns regarding low-quality AI content and copyright infringement, authorities plan to invest 6 billion yuan (approximately 7 billion HKD) to boost live-action productions. New regulations will require platforms to establish dedicated live-action drama zones and mandate clear labeling for AI-generated content to protect portrait and voice rights.

Industry figures are reacting to the shift. Actor Stephen Chow has adopted a dual strategy, investing in both live-action productions and AI film technology. Meanwhile, veteran actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai noted that while AI is a helpful tool, it lacks the genuine emotional depth and human essence found in real performances, comparing the difference to that between real and synthetic diamonds.