Disney Expands Its Reach into China Further With Youku Deal


Published on 2/12/18 by Craig Smith




disney youkuA deal was announced this week that will expand Disney’s reach into China’s massive consumer base pretty significantly. The deal was between Disney-owned Buena Vista International and Alibaba-owned Youku (think YouTube of China) and centered on providing Disney cartoon content for the Chinese streaming platform.

Foreign companies are not permitted by the Chinese government to broadcast in the country, but are allowed to enter into distribution and licensing deals with Chinese video platforms. This deal will bring more than 1,000 Disney cartoon episodes to Youku, with up to 600 episodes exclusive to Youku in the first two years. There are also a number of Disney movies that will be made available to Youku subscribers as part of the deal.

Source: Variety