China Animation bets on Sonic the Hedgehog in push to win over mainland animation enthusiasts

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Zhuang Xiangsong, founder and chairman of China Animation Characters Co thinks the mainland market is ready to embrace a new batch of animated characters. Photo: Edmond So

Published: 6:07pm, 20 Feb 2017Updated: 10:57pm, 20 Feb 2017

China Animation Characters Co, the mainland’s leading animation firm, plans to introduce a clutch of globally renowned cartoon characters including Sonic the Hedgehog by Japanese entertainment giant Sega to the Chinese market as it strives to strike a chord with youngsters.

The Shenzhen-based animation company will also quicken the expansion pace of its indoor amusement parks across the mainland.

“The market potential is huge and we want to let popular characters around the globe engage with the Chinese audience,” Zhuang Xiangsong, founder and chairman of China Animation, said. “This year, we will make a series of efforts to create a synergy between Sega’s Sonic the Hedgehog and our products. We’ll enhance the presence of international characters in China through the models including cooperation, agency and acquisition.”

The Shanghai Joypolis indoor amusement park. Photo: SCMP Handout

China Animation has been selected by mainland cultural authorities as a state-level animation company to receive support and sponsorship from the government.

Zhuang said the Shenzhen-headquartered company could compete against global rivals such as Walt Disney by introducing quality virtual reality products to Chinese people.

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