Disney's "Zootopia 2" is already posting an impressive performance at China's box office ahead of its debut in the country. According to movie ticket platform Maoyan, the film's presales surpassed 310 million yuan (about $43.7 million) on the evening of November 25, marking a new record for an imported animated film in China. The long-awaited sequel, arriving nine years after the original, opened nationwide in China on November 26.

In the new chapter, fan-favorite duo Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde reunite to lead audiences back into the vibrant world of Zootopia. Picking up where the first film left off, the story follows the pair as they confront fresh challenges – both in their careers and their partnership – while uncovering new secrets hidden within the city.

The Oscar-winning core team spent nine years crafting the new film, which involved a 700-member production crew, 80 new settings, 76 animal species, up to 140 variations, and crowd scenes featuring as many as 50,000 characters.

With more than 64 percent of national screenings in China on opening day – rising to 80 percent in prime slots in key cities – "Zootopia 2" is poised for a strong debut, leading the day's box office. The film will also open in North America on November 26.