Baskin-Robbins, the sister chain of Dunkin’ Donuts, said Wednesday that it has signed franchise agreements that are projected to triple its presence in China.

Canton-based Baskin-Robbins currently operates nearly 7,000 ice cream shops in about 50 countries.

In a Wednesday press release, the chain said it has signed franchise agreements that are projected to open 249 additional Baskin-Robbins shops across China over the next decade.

Dunkin’ Donuts is also pursuing ambitious expansion plans.

Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins share a corporate parent in Dunkin’ Brands Group.

In a statement, Giorgio Minardi, president of Dunkin’ Brands International, said: “We’re very excited to expand the Baskin-Robbins brand in China with these five new partners who each have a deep knowledge of their local consumers.”