Yes! Yes, yes, yes yeeeeeeeeeeeeeesssssssssssss!!!
There are other plushie manufactures that aren't in china and don't require bulk sales, however, an artist is looking at paying $75-200 for a sample plushie alone depending where you're looking.
For the most part, it's cheaper and easier to try and find a buddy making plushies and pay them for smaller runs than seeking out a big company.