Lego defends its decision to build business in China

Lego is planning a major expansion in China despite growing concerns about the country’s human rights record.

Niels Christiansen, chief executive, said the Danish company planned to open about 145 new stores this year, mostly in China. The toy-maker opened 91 shops there last year.

Lego is also expanding its manufacturing capabilities in China.

Deepening ties come despite concerns about China’s treatment of its Uyghur population in the northwestern region of Xinjiang and growing tensions with the West.

A Lego spokesman said: “We monitor the geopolitical situation in all parts of the world. Children in China should benefit from Lego play, just as children in other countries do.”