China stops Labubu, Molly doll smugglers as prices soar, fights reported overseas
South China Morning PostWednesday, May 28, 2025 at 8:00:09 AM
Chinese customs officials are cracking down on smugglers trying to sneak out popular Pop Mart toys like Labubu and Molly dolls, as resale prices skyrocket overseas. Multiple busts have happened, including one where 318 dolls were seized from travelers at an airport—likely trying to cash in on the global hype around these collectibles.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about toys—it’s a sign of how hot China’s pop culture exports have gotten. Collectibles like Labubu and Molly aren’t just playthings; they’re big business, with resale markets driving demand. The crackdown shows how seriously authorities are taking unauthorized trade, but it also highlights how these dolls have become a cultural (and economic) phenomenon beyond China’s borders. If you’re into collectibles, this might explain why prices are all over the place.
— Curated via WP Now’s
