According to a secret investigation released on December 3 by The Paper, dozens of doll models were openly sold with keywords such as “child face,” “Lolita,” and “young girl.” These findings sparked widespread outrage and led to public calls for enhanced protections for minors.
The issue gained traction after French consumer watchdogs published a report in November, revealing that fashion brand Shein had been selling dolls resembling children. Chinese netizens subsequently found similar products on domestic platforms, prompting an official investigation.
According to the survey, these dolls ranged in height from 40 to 170 cm, often featuring childlike faces but adult-shaped bodies. They were made from silicone, plastic, or rubber, with some models even featuring heating or suction functions. Prices ranged from 230 to 3,700 yuan (approximately $30–520 USD).
Although the listings have now been removed, many previous public comments praised the products, calling them “easy to use” or “very realistic.”
A sex doll manufacturing facility in Guangdong Province that has been operating for over 10 years confirmed that it exports to 96 countries and territories.
One worker disclosed that the products were sometimes labeled as “exercise equipment” to avoid inspection. Another revealed that shipments did not include the factory’s identifiable information.
A manufacturer based in Huizhou even included pregnant dolls in its catalog, as well as models described as “tall, plump women at 170 cm.”
The topic has gained massive attention on Weibo, with over 1 billion views, and many users demanding tighter regulations.
Lawyer Sun Xuejie stated that the production and sale of childlike sex dolls could potentially constitute the crime of “producing and distributing obscene materials” and would violate China’s Law on the Protection of Minors.
She explained: “When childlike images are linked to pornographic content, it can firstly increase the risk of juveniles committing related offenses. Secondly, it also raises the danger of children being subjected to abuse.”
Major platforms such as Taobao, Pinduoduo, JD.com, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu have all launched investigations into the sale of these products. A December 4 survey by Sixth Tone found that search results for “child-faced dolls” had largely disappeared, though some listings were still found on JD.com.
Authorities in multiple cities have joined the effort to investigate the companies involved. The Huizhou factory has ceased production, and the Dongguan municipal government has formed a task force and confiscated the dolls that were discovered.
Lawyer Sun noted that the current legal framework regarding childlike sex dolls remains unclear, including the definition of such products, standards for forensic assessment, and the scope of penalties. She expressed hope that the Supreme People’s Court will soon clarify the legal status and criminal responsibilities concerning the manufacturing, distribution, and purchase of these types of dolls.
Sources: Znews
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