Transnationalisation of television and the trade in TV formats. An analysis of Dutch and Flemish TV programming and production The international trade in TV formats both facilitates and demonstrates the transnationalisation of television. In order to examine the degree and mechanisms of transnationalisation, this article first analyses the number and characteristics of format adaptations broadcasted on Dutch and Flemish TV channels between 1995 and 2018. Then, based on interviews and other data sources, the role of the international format trade in national production industries is analysed. The results show that the number of format adaptations is limited, but the impact of the format trade on TV programming and production goes beyond specific format adaptations. The format trade plays a significant role in TV industries because producers, even in small markets, can – and increasingly aim to – sell their programme ideas internationally. This study demonstrates how the format trade installs new international programming flows and production practices.