China: Video AI Takes Hold, Costs $90–120 per Minute

In China, productions are already using AI-generated videos instead of interpreters. The costs per minute are reported to be between $90 and $120, while new models are improving quality. The volume of short dramas is skyrocketing, with nearly all being generated by AI, according to a professional association. Layoffs and an increase in AI-related litigation are being reported.

Layoffs and Increase in AI-Related Litigation

Some performers in China are required to provide their voice and appearance to AI tools before being laid off. Lawyers have noted a rise in AI-related lawsuits over the past two to three years. Additionally, the arrival of Seedance 2.5 and Wan 3.0 has further enhanced the quality of AI-generated videos.

Production Costs Dropped to $90–120 per Minute

The price to produce one minute of video using artificial intelligence now ranges from $90 to $120. According to Professor Shen Yang from Tsinghua University, this amount is about 10% of the cost of a production involving real actors. The introduction of Seedance 2.0 by ByteDance has made it possible to create higher-quality videos by digital performers, with faster execution and at a lower rate than human productions.

Record Volumes and Shift to AI in Short Dramas

In the first quarter of 2026, China saw the release of approximately 128,000 short dramas, a figure three times higher than that of 2025. According to the Chinese Broadcasting Services Association, 95% of this content was created using artificial intelligence. The industry accounts for 690,000 direct jobs, and 15 million people consider livestreaming their primary activity. Works are already replacing human actors with AI-generated videos.