Apple has much less consumer friendly return policies in many non-US markets. Take Hong Kong for example: "All products purchased at Apple Store in Hong Kong cannot be returned or exchanged. Exceptions for exchange will be allowed for defective products only." https://www.apple.com/hk/shop/help/exchange_return
I'd have a hard time arguing that the AirPods are defective because the non-bundled mat on the box didn't ship.
I'd have a hard time arguing that the AirPods are defective because the non-bundled mat on the box didn't ship.