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The Hype Explained: Why MOLLY and Squid Game are Dominating 2026
As we move through early 2026, the designer toy market remains as vibrant as ever, and no collaboration has captured the collective imagination quite like the POPMART MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% Squid Game edition. This fusion of POP MART’s flagship character with the visual language of the global phenomenon Squid Game has created a must-have item for collectors worldwide.
The 100% scale MEGA series is particularly popular because it offers the intricate detail of the larger 400% and 1000% versions but in a size that is easier to display and collect in sets. The Squid Game variant features MOLLY in the iconic pink guard jumpsuit, complete with the mask symbols that defined the series. In the US, this release has seen massive demand due to the cultural staying power of the franchise and the limited nature of US-exclusive colorways or early-access drops.
Is it Actually Worth Importing from the USA?
For collectors in China, the question always arises: is it worth the effort and cost to source this from the United States? To answer this, we need to look at the "Value/Worth" angle from a few perspectives: availability, authenticity, and total cost.
While POP MART is a Chinese brand, certain editions are allocated specifically for the North American market or are released there first during major events like New York Comic Con or US-based retail pop-ups. Often, these US releases can be found at retail prices (typically around $25-$30 USD) on sites like the official POP MART US store or NTWRK, whereas the secondary market price in China might be inflated due to perceived rarity.
However, the "real cost" includes more than just the sticker price. You have to factor in international logistics. To get a clear picture of your total investment, you should use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before placing your order. If the total cost (Retail + Shipping + Tax) is lower than the local resale price in China, importing is a clear winner.
How to Buy from US Stores as a China Resident
Many US-based retailers that stock the MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% Squid Game do not offer direct international shipping to China, or if they do, the rates are prohibitively expensive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential.
By using a forwarding service, you are provided with a US-based shipping address. You can use this address at checkout on any US website. Once your MOLLY arrives at the US warehouse, the forwarder notifies you, and you can then ship it to your doorstep in China. If you are new to this process, check out this step-by-step guide on how it works to ensure your first purchase goes smoothly.
Navigating Shipping from the USA to China
Logistics in 2026 have become more streamlined, yet shipping from USA to China still requires a bit of strategy. When shipping high-value collectibles like the MEGA SPACE MOLLY, you want to ensure the packaging is robust. US forwarders often offer "repacking" services to reduce the dimensional weight of your package, saving you money while adding extra protection.
Transit times typically range from 5 to 10 business days depending on the service level chosen. For a 100% MOLLY, which is relatively light, you might consider "consolidating" it with other US purchases—perhaps some US-exclusive apparel or other tech gadgets—to maximize the value of the initial shipping weight bracket.
Understanding Import Duties and Hidden Costs
One of the most overlooked aspects of importing is the localized tax requirement. When your package enters China, it may be subject to import duties or customs tax. As of 2026, China’s regulations on cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) continue to evolve.
Generally, for personal items, there is a tax-free threshold, but if your total shipment value exceeds a certain amount, you will be required to pay a percentage of the declared value. It is vital to declare the value of your POPMART figure accurately to avoid delays or fines at the border. Check our guide on GST/VAT and customs for the most up-to-date information on how these fees are calculated for 2026 imports.
Pro-Tip: Use Repacking to Save
Since the POPMART MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% comes in a small box, US retailers often ship them in much larger shipping cartons filled with air pillows. Using a forwarder that offers repacking can significantly lower your costs by reducing the physical size of the box before it is weighed for international transit.
Final Verdict: To Import or Not to Import?
So, is the POPMART MEGA SPACE MOLLY 100% Squid Game worth importing from the USA to China?
Yes, if:
- You are looking for a specific US-exclusive release or packaging variant.
- The local resale price in China is significantly higher than the US retail price plus shipping.
- You are planning to buy multiple items and can consolidate them to save on shipping.
No, if:
- The item is readily available at retail price from local Chinese flagship stores.
- You are only buying one single 100% figure and the shipping costs exceed the value of the toy itself.
For the serious collector, the peace of mind that comes with buying from an official US retailer and using a trusted logistics partner makes the process well worth it. Happy collecting in 2026!
