The series is now gaining popularity in the Arab market. Arab media reports pertaining to the show have increased and discussions of it by internet influencers and among local viewers have also risen. Later it will be aired in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, among other Arab countries.

"I think Minning Town is a landmark show for us to be able to introduce Chinese TV series to the Arab world. The time is right," says Ma Ning.

Last December, the National Radio and Television Administration held a meeting in Beijing on "TV Cooperation Between China and Arab States". The meeting announced the launch of a Chinese TV series section at the Dubai-based Middle East Broadcasting Center, which will let audiences in Arab states watch hit Chinese dramas, including Minning Town.

Le Yucheng, deputy head of National Radio and Television Administration, said at the meeting that China is willing to cooperate with Arab states to produce and broadcast more television programs.

The Yinchuan-based Wisdom House International Culture Communication Group, where Ma Ning works, started commercial activities in the Arab nations in 2011. At first, this involved book publication and language education.

In recent years, the company has stepped into the arenas of TV and film. However, it's not easy to get opportunities to work with Arab TV stations directly, according to Ma Ning. The usual way is to take part in film or TV related festivals in Arab nations and Chinese content can be aired for a short period.

"Many Arab people's impression of China is that of the country in the 1990s. Martial arts actors like Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan are the best known Chinese faces in the film industry," says Ma Ning.