Core Insights - The 15th China International Animation and Comic Copyright Protection and Trade Expo (referred to as "Comic Expo") opened on August 8 in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, featuring over 600 enterprises from more than 40 countries and regions, showcasing over 2,000 well-known domestic and international animation and toy IPs [1][2] - The expo covers a total exhibition area of 26,400 square meters and includes five major display and trading units, such as a global film and animation screening hall and an IP licensing exchange [1] - Thailand is the guest country for this year's expo, showcasing representative works in original animation and trendy toys, including "CHAO CHOK" and "MY DAY" [1] Industry Overview - Dongguan is a hub for the toy industry, housing over 4,000 toy manufacturing companies and nearly 1,500 upstream and downstream supporting enterprises, making it China's largest toy export base [1] - The expo's location in Shipaizhen, a key area for the toy industry, signifies a new upgrade from a single exhibition scene to a comprehensive industrial park, promoting deep collaboration between the industry and the expo [2] - Phil Nibbelink, a renowned American animator, highlighted Shipaizhen as a significant manufacturing base for animation derivatives, emphasizing the integration of creativity and manufacturing in showcasing a complete animation ecosystem [2]