China significantly expanded its global influence in 2025 through the export of its cultural products, including movies, video games, and toys, marking a shift in its international power dynamic. This surge in popularity occurred despite, and in some ways because of, increased economic pressure from the United States under President Donald Trump's administration, which had implemented tariffs and export restrictions aimed at curbing China's economic growth.

The success of Chinese cultural exports such as the movie "Nhe Zha 2" and the video game "Black Myth: Wukong," along with the widespread appeal of toys like Labubu, demonstrated China's growing soft power, according to a report by Today, Explained. Don Weinland, a China business and finance editor for The Economist based in Shanghai, noted the unexpected rise of these cultural phenomena on the global stage.

The rise of China's soft power comes at a time when many nations are re-evaluating their relationships with the country. For decades, China has been known as a manufacturing hub, but the recent success of its entertainment industry signals a new phase in its global presence. This transition has implications for international trade, cultural exchange, and geopolitical strategy.

The global embrace of Chinese cultural products suggests a shift in international perceptions and preferences. While the United States has historically dominated the global entertainment market, China's growing influence in this sector could lead to a more balanced and diverse cultural landscape. The long-term effects of this shift on international relations and cultural identities remain to be seen.