By Haifa Chairunisa
A workers’ rights organisation has accused a Chinese toy factory linked to the production of Labubu dolls of labour abuses, following an independent investigation into working conditions. China Labor Watch (CLW), a US-based non-profit, said its findings point to widespread violations involving excessive overtime, irregular employment contracts and the denial of paid leave.
Labubu dolls, furry elf-like characters sold largely through Pop Mart’s “blind box” model, have seen a sharp rise in popularity worldwide in recent years.
Pop Mart said it is reviewing the allegations. The Beijing-headquartered retailer told the BBC it takes the claims seriously and would require any supplier found in breach of standards to make corrections. The company added that it routinely audits its supply chain, including annual inspections conducted by independent, internationally recognised firms.
According to CLW, the investigation targeted Shunjia Toys Co Ltd, a manufacturing partner based in Guangdong province. Attempts by the BBC to contact the company for comment were unsuccessful.
CLW said its researchers carried out 51 face-to-face interviews with workers at the factory, focusing on recruitment practices, contract arrangements and day-to-day working conditions. The facility, described as a key production site for Pop Mart, employs more than 4,500 people.
The report highlighted a range of alleged labour violations at the Xinfeng County plant, including overtime hours that exceed legal limits, vague or incomplete contracts, and inadequate workplace safety training. While no cases of child labour were identified, CLW said the factory employed 16-year-old workers under the same conditions as adults, without the additional protections required under Chinese law.
The organisation called on Pop Mart to take swift action to remedy the issues, urging compensation for affected workers and full compliance with domestic labour regulations and international standards. CLW noted that factories operating as original equipment manufacturers often face pressure from client-imposed pricing and production schedules, which can directly influence labour conditions.
Labubu dolls have become a global retail phenomenon, drawing long queues at stores and benefiting from high-profile endorsements by celebrities including Kim Kardashian and Blackpink’s Lisa, helping to cement Pop Mart’s position in the international toy market.
Original article
Comments