10-02-2026

China's Rise: Protecting IP and Expanding Brands

Date: 10-02-2026
Sources: economist.com: 3
Image for cluster 2
Image Prompt:

Chinese law enforcement officials seizing counterfeit Labubu dolls in a large-scale raid, documentary photography style with a 24mm lens, harsh overhead lighting with shadows, capturing the intensity of the crackdown, amidst piles of fake toys and official documentation, conveying a sense of authority and protection of intellectual property.

Summary

China is shifting from being known for stealing foreign ideas to protecting its own intellectual property, driven by the success of brands like Pop Mart's Labubu dolls. The country's courts are flooded with IP cases, and officials are cracking down on counterfeit goods. Chinese brands are gaining global popularity, with companies now expanding into new areas such as TV shows and theme parks.

Key Points

  • China is cracking down on counterfeit goods, seizing $1.7m worth of fake Labubu dolls
  • Pop Mart's Labubu dolls have seen a 245% year-on-year sales increase, driving the company's expansion plans
  • Chinese brands are gaining global popularity and now focus on protecting their IP

Articles in this Cluster

China once stole foreign ideas. Now it wants to protect its own

China is shifting from being a country known for stealing foreign ideas to one that wants to protect its own intellectual property. The country's courts are flooded with IP cases, and officials are cracking down on counterfeit goods, such as fake 'Labubu' dolls created by Pop Mart. A nationwide campaign has been launched to combat these knock-offs, with Shanghai police seizing a large stash worth $1.7m. This change reflects China's growing focus on safeguarding its own innovations and creative works.
Entities: China, Pop Mart, Labubu doll, Lafufus, ShanghaiTone: neutralSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

First, grinning Labubu dolls. Now, a TV show and theme parks

Pop Mart, a Chinese toymaker, has gained global popularity with its Labubu dolls, experiencing a 245% year-on-year sales increase in the third quarter. The company's success has caught the attention of investors, and it now aims to expand its brand into TV shows and theme parks, with the ambition of becoming China's Disney. The article discusses Pop Mart's rise to fame, its global customer base, and its plans for future entertainment ventures.
Entities: Pop Mart, Labubu dolls, China, Disney, ShanghaiTone: neutralSentiment: positiveIntent: inform

It’s not just Labubu dolls. Chinese brands are booming

The article discusses the rise of Chinese brands, particularly in the toy industry, with Labubu dolls being a prime example. These dolls have become highly sought after, not just among Chinese children but also among celebrities worldwide. The success of Labubu dolls is indicative of a broader trend where Chinese brands are gaining popularity both domestically and internationally. The article highlights how Chinese companies are now focusing on protecting their intellectual property, a shift from the past when they were often on the receiving end of intellectual property infringement.
Entities: Labubu dolls, Pop Mart, Shanghai, China, Sir David BeckhamTone: positiveSentiment: positiveIntent: inform