Over 100,000 eager fans braved summer heat to attend the 2025 Shanghai International Trendy Toys Collection Exhibition last week, where Pop Mart's iconic Labubu figurines shared the spotlight with 3,000 new collectible releases. The four-day event transformed into a cultural phenomenon, with visitors queuing for hours to secure limited-edition pieces from 500 participating brands.
"This isn't just about toys – it's urban culture becoming tangible," said industry analyst Li Wei, observing crowds trading rare figures outside the Shanghai New International Expo Center. The exhibition's success underscores China's growing influence in global pop culture markets, with domestic brands accounting for 60% of showcased products.
Business analysts highlight the sector's 34% year-on-year growth, driven by young urban professionals. "These collectibles represent both emotional value and investment potential," noted Hong Kong-based market strategist Emma Chen, pointing to secondary market platforms where rare pieces sell for 50x retail prices.
The event's international appeal drew buyers from 15 countries, with organizers announcing plans for satellite exhibitions in Singapore and Dubai later this year.
