Pop Mart exploring expansion in the Philippines

BIGGER PRESENCE. DTI-FTSC, DCP, and IPOPHL meet with officials from Pop Mart International Group on plans to expand their footprint in the Philippines.

MANILA, Philippines — Beijing-based designer toy brand powerhouse Pop Mart International Group is looking to expand its footprint in the Philippines, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said on Tuesday.

The company — known for its popular characters such as Labubu, Crybaby, Hirono, Molly, Skullpanda, and Dimoo — embarked on a business mission to Manila on April 10 to explore local opportunities.

“Specifically, the company conveyed a strong interest in working with Filipino creatives to develop new intellectual property and original designs,” the DTI said in a statement.

During the visit, the delegation engaged with the Philippine Franchise Association (PFA) and key government agencies, including the Board of Investments (BOI) and the Intellectual Property Office of the Philippines (IPOPHL), according to the DTI.

Pop Mart currently operates two pop-up stores in the country, one in SM Makati and another in SM Mall of Asia.