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Billionaire Profile
Francis Choi
Global Rank
#443

Image: LN9267 | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Francis Choi

CEO, Real estate
HONG KONG
Real-Time Net Worth
$7.968B
Estimated based on Real estate stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.02% (24h)
Age
78
Source
Real estate
Industry
Diversified
Citizenship
HONG KONG

Biography

Francis Choi Chee-ming, often called the "King of Toys," is a self-made Hong Kong billionaire. Born in 1945, Choi is the founder and chairman of Early Light International (Holdings) Ltd., the world's largest toy manufacturer. His source of wealth is primarily real estate and the toy industry. As of February 2026, his estimated net worth is $8.0 billion. Choi's career began as a toy salesman, and he built his empire through strategic partnerships and a focus on quality. He also serves as vice chairman of Regal Hotels International and is a major investor in property, showcasing his business acumen and diverse investment portfolio.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Francis Choi Chee-ming was born in Guangdong Province, China, in 1945, and grew up in Hong Kong. His early life was characterized by a move to Hong Kong, where he would build his business. Choi started his career as a toy salesman in 1972.

Rise to Success

At 25 years old, Choi opened his first toy factory. Within five years, the business grew to employ 300 people. He established key relationships with toy giants like Mattel, producing Snoopy merchandise. Choi founded Early Light International (Holdings) Ltd., which became the world's largest toy manufacturer, earning him the nickname "King of Toys". He diversified his investments, acquiring stakes in Town Health International and Regal Hotels International.

Key Business Strategies

Choi's key strategies included manufacturing quality toys for global brands, focusing on efficiency, innovation, and quality control to stay ahead in a competitive industry. He expanded his business through strategic investments in real estate and other sectors, including watch retail through Halewinner Watches.

Philanthropy

Choi supports education and healthcare through various charitable contributions in Hong Kong and China. Further specific amounts were not found in the search results.

Career Milestones

1972

Founded First Toy Factory

Choi started his first toy factory at the age of 25.

1970s

Partnership with Mattel

Began manufacturing Snoopy merchandise for Mattel.

Ongoing

Chairman of Early Light International

Led Early Light International (Holdings) Ltd., the world's largest toy manufacturer.

2010

Acquired Halewinner Watches

Entered the watch retail business.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Healthcare

Education and Healthcare Support

Undisclosed

Supports schools, medical research, and community programs in Hong Kong and China.

Controversies & Challenges

2018

Convoy Global Holdings Case

Choi was named in a case brought by Convoy Global Holdings concerning allegations of fraud.

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