Weekly update

China has long been recognized as the world’s largest toy manufacturing hub, producing nearly 80% of global toys. Traditionally, the term “toymaker in China” referred to OEM suppliers — factories that manufactured toys for Western brands at scale. However, this meaning has evolved.

Today, Chinese toymakers are moving beyond simple OEM production. Companies such as Pop Mart, specializing in collectible designer toys, and Dream Garden, a leader in custom indoor and outdoor playground equipment, are reshaping the industry by investing in design, safety, intellectual property (IP), and customer experience.

Key Aspects of Chinese Toy Manufacturing

1. World’s Toy Capital

The Chenghai District of Shantou, Guangdong Province, is widely recognized as the global center for toy production, especially in building blocks and plastic toys.

2. Diverse Products

Chinese toymakers now cover a wide spectrum of industries, from low-cost plastic toys to educational products and even large-scale indoor playground equipment.

3. OEM & ODM Services

Many factories continue to offer OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturing), allowing international brands to manufacture in China.

4. Cost-Effectiveness

China’s strength lies in its efficient industrial supply chains, skilled labor, and competitive costs, making it an attractive hub for global buyers.

5. Technological Advancement

Chinese companies are innovating by developing IP-based toys and turnkey playground solutions, moving from “factory for others” to “global brand creators.”

Industry Examples

• Pop Mart (泡泡玛特) – Specializes in collectible figurines and blind-box toys, now a cultural icon.

• Dream Garden (梦园游乐) – Manufactures customized indoor and outdoor playgrounds with turnkey services.

• Alpha Group – A multinational Chinese toy conglomerate with global presence.

• CaDA Bricks – Focused on STEM/STEAM educational building blocks.

FAQ Section

Q1: What does “Toymaker in China” mean?

It refers to companies in China that design, manufacture, and export toys or playground equipment, ranging from OEM suppliers to global brand creators.

Q2: Where are toys manufactured in China?

Mainly in Guangdong Province (Shantou, Dongguan, Shenzhen), and in other hubs such as Zhejiang and Wenzhou for playground equipment.

Q3: How much does it cost to make a toy in China?

Simple toys can cost a few cents, while custom indoor playgrounds or branded designer toys may require higher investment in design, molds, and certifications.

Q4: How are Chinese toymakers shifting from OEM to brands?

By focusing on design, IP, innovation, and global service. Dream Garden, for instance, now provides design + manufacturing + installation as a one-stop solution.

Conclusion

The phrase “Toymaker in China” no longer represents only low-cost OEM production. It now reflects an evolving industry of innovation, safety, customization, and brand-building. Companies like Dream Garden are at the forefront, creating safe, creative, and joyful playgrounds for clients worldwide.