The APAC region now accounts for 36% of global streaming scripted series orders, surpassing North America and Europe, according to Ampere Analysis.
The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region has taken the lead in the global streaming scripted series market, accounting for a remarkable 36% of all first-run scripted TV orders. This significant shift not only surpasses the orders from North America and Europe but also marks a pivotal moment in global entertainment dynamics. According to research from Ampere Analysis released on September 3, 2026, the growth in Asia's contribution underscores the increasing investment and interest from major streaming platforms.
In the first half of 2026, APAC achieved a total of 70 greenlights from prominent streaming services such as Prime Video, Apple TV+, Disney+, HBO Max, Netflix, and Paramount+. By comparison, North America logged only 46 scripted series orders, while Western Europe was responsible for 44. Other regions collectively produced just 34 new scripted series. This data highlights APAC's substantial lead, fueled by its diverse and expansive market.
India has emerged as the largest contributor to APAC's success, with a significant 25 new series orders marking its growth. South Korea follows closely, showcasing a robust pipeline of scripted productions that cater to both domestic and international audiences. Following them, Taiwan and the Philippines have begun to exhibit encouraging signs of growth, with unique storytelling opportunities gaining traction in these markets.
Prominent platforms like Amazon Prime Video and Netflix are spearheading the momentum in the Asian streaming landscape. Notably, Netflix has quadrupled its scripted series orders in Taiwan, indicating its commitment to local content. Popular titles like How to Survive Med School and Million-follower Detective exemplify this trend. Meanwhile, Amazon has announced five new series in the Philippines, including a romance drama titled The Loyalty Game, reflecting the evolving tastes of audiences in the region.
The surge of demand has mainly centered around the Crime & Thriller genre, which has emerged as the most sought-after category for new orders. Additionally, there has been a remarkable rise in drama series. Conversely, the Sci-Fi & Fantasy genres have faced declining interest, indicating a shift in viewer preferences that emphasizes local narratives and relatable content.
Asia's ascendance as a leader in scripted content represents a significant transformation in the global entertainment landscape. This shift not only highlights the importance of local talent and narratives but also compels streaming platforms to invest heavily in international markets beyond their traditional boundaries. The strategy reflects a concerted effort to target diverse stories and cultural experiences, with the potential to engage a broader audience worldwide.
The emergence of the APAC region as a prominent player in streaming scripted series orders signifies a revolutionary transformation in global storytelling dynamics. This trend is set to inspire further investments in a variety of narratives, granting audiences broader access to culturally rich content that has been historically underserved. As platforms adapt to evolving viewer preferences, we may witness a wider acceptance of international shows, reshaping the global viewing experience for diverse audiences. The implications for content creators and streaming services alike are profound, indicating an exciting future for storytelling in the digital age.
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