Intellectual property (IP) is becoming increasingly vital, especially for companies dealing with creative products. This is particularly true in China, where much of the production takes place. Ukrainian entrepreneurs and economists should focus not only on trademark registration but also on securing copyrights. The Chinese company Pop Mart, renowned for its popular Labubu toys, achieved a significant victory in a copyright infringement case, offering a crucial lesson for IP professionals and businesses. 🚀
Case Overview: Copyright Infringement of Labubu Sports Series 📅
Pop Mart holds the copyright for its Labubu Sports Series, created on June 18, 2019, and registered with China’s National Copyright Administration in March 2020. The Labubu design was promoted through the official website, online and offline stores, and advertising, gaining widespread recognition and significant market value. 🌟
In December 2024, Pop Mart discovered that the online store XX Product Factory was using Labubu images without permission, violating the Copyright Law of the People’s Republic of China. Pop Mart filed a lawsuit in the Yongkang City People’s Court in Zhejiang Province, demanding the cessation of infringement, compensation of 50,000 yuan for economic losses, and coverage of legal costs.
The court reviewed the evidence and found that XX Product Factory’s products were substantially similar to Pop Mart’s Labubu design, with only minor differences (eyes, ears, teeth). The court ordered XX Product Factory to stop the infringement and pay 10,000 yuan in compensation. While this amount is modest compared to the auction prices of collectible Labubu items (one sold for 1.08 million yuan at a spring auction in June 2025), the case underscores Pop Mart’s commitment to protecting its IP.
Pop Mart’s Strategy Against Piracy 🔍
Pop Mart has been actively combating counterfeiters since 2017, when it discovered fake Molly, Labubu, and Yoki toys on platforms like Taobao and WeChat. In August 2018, the company filed a lawsuit, initially demanding 10 million yuan but later reducing the claim to 3.8 million yuan. The court awarded 650,000 yuan. Notably, this case also involved a patent dispute over design, highlighting Pop Mart’s comprehensive approach to IP protection, including patents.
Seizures in Ukraine 🇺🇦
On the Ukrainian-Slovak border, authorities seized 16,850 counterfeit items, including soft toys, keychains, and silicone phone and earphone cases. The estimated value of the batch exceeds 500,000 UAH. This demonstrates that copyright enforcement in Ukraine is effective. Pop Mart has registered 16 trademarks in Ukraine and 15 through the EUIPO, showing a strategic approach to IP protection, starting in China, where production is concentrated.
The company has secured over 70 copyrights for Labubu and nearly 2,200 trademarks in China, along with 48 patents covering toys, packaging, and vending machines. 🌍
Implications for Businesses and Economists
Pop Mart’s victory highlights China’s growing role in global IP protection. Previously, American or Ukrainian copyright registrations were not enforceable in China, but the market now offers new opportunities for IP protection. For Ukrainian entrepreneurs, this means adapting to international standards, especially when working with Chinese manufacturers. Pop Mart’s strategic approach—covering all aspects of IP, from copyrights to patents—creates a monopoly and ensures market control.
Lessons for Ukrainian Entrepreneurs
This case is highly relevant for Ukraine, where many businesses rely on Chinese production. Registering copyrights, trademarks, and patents not only protects against piracy but also boosts business capitalization and reputation. Industry leaders like Pop Mart show how comprehensive IP protection can become a competitive advantage.
What do you think? Is it worth investing in global IP protection for small businesses? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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