A labour rights group has alleged serious worker exploitation at a Chinese factory that produces the viral Labubu dolls, raising concerns over labour practices in Pop Mart’s supply chain.
China Labor Watch (CLW), a US-based non-governmental organisation, said its investigation uncovered evidence that one of Pop Mart’s suppliers forced employees to work excessive overtime, required them to sign blank or incomplete contracts, and denied them paid leave.
The furry Labubu dolls, known for being sold in “blind boxes” that conceal their contents until opened, have surged in popularity worldwide in recent years.
Responding to the claims, Pop Mart told the BBC it is investigating the allegations. The Beijing-based toy retailer said it values the findings of the review and will “firmly” require suppliers to correct any violations if the claims are substantiated. The company added that it conducts regular audits of its suppliers, including annual independent third-party inspections by internationally recognised firms.
According to CLW, the investigation focused on Shunjia Toys Co Ltd, a Labubu manufacturer based in Guangdong province in southern China. The BBC said it was unable to reach the company for comment.
CLW said its researchers carried out 51 in-person interviews with factory workers, examining recruitment processes, contract practices, and working conditions. The factory, described as a “core manufacturing facility” for Pop Mart, reportedly employs more than 4,500 workers.
The group flagged multiple labour concerns at Shunjia’s factory in Xinfeng County, including what it described as illegal overtime hours, unclear employment contracts, and inadequate safety training and protections.
While no child labour was identified, CLW said the factory employed 16-year-old workers who were subjected to the same conditions as adults, without the additional safeguards required under Chinese law.
The organisation urged Pop Mart to take “immediate action” to address the alleged abuses, calling on the company to compensate affected workers and ensure compliance with Chinese labour laws and internationally recognised labour standards.
CLW noted that such factories operate as original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), producing goods according to pricing and production schedules set by client brands. “As a result, labour conditions in OEM facilities are closely shaped by brand sourcing practices,” the group said.
Labubu dolls—elf-like characters with jagged teeth—have become a global craze, drawing long queues at stores worldwide. Celebrity endorsements from figures such as Kim Kardashian and Lisa of K-pop group Blackpink have further boosted Pop Mart’s rise as a major international toy retailer.
