Thu, 15 Jan 2026

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 Labubu toy manufacturer exploited workers, labour group claims

Investigators allege that a factory making Pop Mart products neglected staff safety and welfare.
A labour rights organisation, China Labor Watch (CLW), has found evidence of worker exploitation at a Chinese factory making viral Labubu dolls. The investigation revealed that Shunjia Toys Co Ltd, one of Pop Mart's suppliers, forced employees to work excessive overtime shifts and sign blank or incomplete contracts without paid leave. CLW conducted 51 in-person interviews with factory workers and discovered illegal overtime hours, unclear contract practices, and a lack of safety training and protections. The factory, located in Guangdong province, employed over 4,500 workers and was found to have employed 16-year-old workers who were subject to the same working conditions as adults. CLW has urged Pop Mart to take immediate action to address the issues in its supply chain, including compensating affected workers and ensuring compliance with Chinese labour laws and international standards. Pop Mart has responded by stating that it is investigating the claims and will "firmly" require companies making its toys to correct their practices if the allegations are found to be true. The company conducts regular audits of its suppliers, but CLW argues that brand sourcing practices have a significant impact on labour conditions in original equipment manufacturer (OEM) facilities. No child labour was identified at the factory, but CLW is calling for Pop Mart to take responsibility for the working conditions of its employees and ensure compliance with international standards.
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