Michelle Topham 
Chinese title: 淬火年代 (Cui Huo Nian Dai)
Also known as: Created in China, Jian Nan De Zhi Zao (艰难的制造), Guang Rong De Zhi Zao (光荣的制造)
Genre: Period, Business, Drama
Episodes: 34
Original Networks: CCTV, iQiyi, Tencent Video
International Streaming: Varies by region
Plot Synopsis
Created in China is set in the late 1990s China, which was a period of rapid economic reform and industrial transformation in the country. The drama follows Liu Jun, a young man who returns to his hometown of Donghai after studying in Germany and resolves to modernize his father’s old machinery factory using advanced technology and fresh business ideas.
Despite his overseas education, Liu Jun faces numerous real-world struggles, from securing capital and industry connections to integrating new production methods into outdated systems.
Along the way he rekindles friendships, makes new alliances, and runs into clashes with peers and competitors, all against the broader backdrop of China’s evolving manufacturing landscape.
Through tenacity, innovation, and strategic decision-making, Liu Jun leads the factory’s transformation and exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit that helped build modern day Chinese industry.
Main Cast & Characters
- Zhang Xin Cheng as Liu Jun
- Song Zu Er (宋祖儿) as Cui Bing Bing
- Wang Yan Lin as Qian Hong Ming
- Ren Cheng Wei as Liu Shi Xing
- He Yu Hong as Shen Jia Li
- Zhang Yue as Lin Chuan
- Supporting cast includes Liu Yitie, Wang Ying Lu, Gao Lu, and Zhu Yu Chen.
Production & Broadcast Info
- Premiere Date: June 18th, 2025 (China) — first broadcast on CCTV and streaming on iQIYI and Tencent Video.
- Director: Li Xue (Nirvana in Fire)
- Screenwriter: Ming Da Cheng— adapted from the web novel”Jian Nan De Zhi Zao” (艰难的制造) by A Nai (阿耐).
- Filming Location: Ningbo, Zhejiang province (reported)
- Each Episode – 45 minutes.
Where to Watch & Subtitles
- CCTV (China): Original broadcast.
- iQiyi & Tencent Video: Domestic streaming platforms (Chinese subs; region access varies).
Why It’s Worth Watching
- Business & Era Drama: A deep dive into the struggles and triumphs of manufacturing during a pivotal time in China’s economic history.
- Character-Driven Growth: Follows the personal and professional development of Liu Jun amid industry challenges.
- Relationships & Partnerships: Explores friendships, rivalries, and alliances that shape both personal lives and business outcomes.
- Adapted from a Beloved Novel: The source material offers grounded insight into entrepreneurship and industry.
Articles About Created in China
Song Zuer and Zhang Xincheng’s ‘Created in China’ premiere set – character visuals drop!
New ‘Created in China’ stills drop — June 21st, 2025
Zhang Xin Cheng and Song Zu Er’s ‘Created in China’ exceeds 22,000 on Tencent’s heat index
About the Author
