As of December 3, 2025, Zootopia 2 has grossed 2.13 billion yuan (about $302 million) in the Chinese mainland, surpassing its North American box office haul. The sequel's success underscores how an open market combined with smart localization can benefit both local audiences and global studios.
In recent years, Hollywood blockbusters have faced headwinds in the Chinese mainland. Since Avengers: Endgame, few imported films have bounced back from a downward trend. Earlier this year, policy shifts saw a moderate reduction in US film imports, prompting industry watchers to question the future of Hollywood's presence here. Yet Zootopia 2 not only secured a release slot but also drove robust ticket sales, emerging as a standout example among imported titles.
The first Zootopia earned more than 1.54 billion yuan (over $218 million) in the Chinese mainland, earning a 9.3 score on Douban. Local audiences embraced its themes, and the opening of the world’s first Zootopia-themed area at Shanghai Disney Resort further cemented the franchise’s appeal. With Zootopia 2, careful cultural adaptation—such as tailored promotional campaigns and locally relevant story touches—helped the film resonate even more deeply.
Industry analysts point to several factors behind this win-win outcome: alignment of policy adjustments with market demand, robust consumer enthusiasm for high-quality storytelling, and partnerships that respect local tastes. As the Chinese mainland continues to open its doors selectively to international content, filmmakers and investors are watching closely for the next opportunity to bridge creative visions across borders.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and creative minds, Zootopia 2’s performance offers a case study in leveraging cultural insight and policy frameworks to unlock new markets. Its success hints at a future where cross-border collaboration in entertainment can yield fresh stories that captivate audiences worldwide.
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Zootopia 2 shows how China's open market drives win-win success
cgtn.com
