China’s esports industry witnessed a revenue increase of 4.6% this year, reaching 27.6 billion yuan (US$3.8 billion).

This recovery contrasts with a 1.3% revenue decline last year due to reduced esports live-streaming incomes, previously a major source of sector earnings.

The turnaround aligns with government support and international expansion efforts by large gaming firms like Tencent Holdings and NetEase.

Chinese esports teams are increasingly participating in key international tournaments.

Events from this year, including the Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia and plans for the 2025 Olympic Esports Games, underscore the industry’s global role.