CLW Probe Finds Underage Workers, Poor Conditions at Pop Mart Supplier

Investigators who examined conditions at Shunjia Toys in Xinfeng County, Jiangxi province interviewed more than 50 workers and uncovered multiple labour violations at a factory producing Pop Mart’s Labubu "Monsters" figures. The probe found blank or hastily completed employment contracts, workers aged 16-18 assigned to regular assembly-line duties without the legal protections for minors, inadequate health and safety training, and daily production targets that make long overtime effectively mandatory.

Those findings matter to Labubu collectors because they tie the fandom to real-world production practices. Pop Mart earned substantial revenue from the Labubu "Monsters" series, and any disruption or reputational damage to the brand could affect future blind-box drops, chase-figure availability, and aftermarket prices. For those who track release waves and chase rates, this is a reminder that supply-chain issues can ripple into product scarcity and corporate policy shifts.

Pop Mart has replied that it conducts standard audits and is investigating the claims while pledging to strengthen oversight. The company’s statement framed audits and supplier management as ongoing practices, and it said it would review the specific allegations. Investigators recommended that Pop Mart set up accessible grievance and communication channels so workers can report problems without fear of retaliation.

The probe’s specifics raise immediate compliance concerns. Assigning 16-18 year olds to normal production lines can run afoul of labour protections that require different duties, hours limits, and enhanced safety training for younger workers. Blank or perfunctory contracts impede workers’ ability to assert rights or seek remedies. Unrealistic daily output targets push production beyond regular hours and increase the likelihood of accidents when safety training is insufficient.

For community members who follow Pop Mart’s product lifecycle, the practical takeaway is twofold: ethical sourcing can influence brand decisions and market availability, and transparency is essential. Retailers and independent sellers who buy directly from suppliers or resell frequently should monitor company updates and consider the provenance of large-lot purchases. Collectors organizing swaps, trades, or conventions should be prepared for potential supply changes if Pop Mart tightens supplier controls or pauses production while audits proceed.

This story will evolve as Pop Mart completes its investigation and as any regulatory follow-up is made public. Expect closer scrutiny of factory audits, clearer worker channels, and possible adjustments to how and where Labubu runs are produced. For now, verify new statements from the company and watch product drops for signs of delay or change that reflect a supply chain under review.