Messi ‘GOAT’ plushies fly off shelves as fans chase ‘emotional value’ while Chinese firms cash in on World Cup fever (opens original article in a new tab)

Chinese factories are capitalizing on World Cup 2026 by producing Messi and other football star plush toys, as Chinese consumers prioritize emotional value over practicality, with strong fan interest despite the national team's absence from the tournament.

• Chinese factories produce Messi and other football star plush toys for World Cup 2026
• Sales of emotional value items rise as Chinese consumers prioritize personal enjoyment over practicality
• China's football fan base remains strong despite national team's absence from World Cup