Table of Contents
- The 2026 Pop Mart Star People Hype Explained
- Myth #1: You Can’t Buy Pop Mart Star People if You Live in India
- Myth #2: International Shipping from the US is Way Too Expensive
- How to Buy Pop Mart Star People from US Stores
- Why You Need a Reliable Package Forwarder
- Navigating India Import Duties and GST
- Are Collectibles Restricted? Checking Prohibited Items
The 2026 Pop Mart Star People Hype Explained
If you have been scrolling through social media lately, you have likely seen the ethereal, celestial designs of the Pop Mart Star People collection. As we move through January 2026, this series has become the most sought-after designer toy release of the year. Unlike previous series that focused on whimsical animals or streetwear aesthetics, Star People leans into high-concept astral art, making it a favorite for both serious toy collectors and interior design enthusiasts.
The trend started in the US and East Asia, but Indian collectors have been feeling the FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out). Because Pop Mart often limits these high-demand releases to specific regions, many fans in India believe they are simply locked out of the market. However, that is a misconception we are here to clear up today.
Myth #1: You Can’t Buy Pop Mart Star People if You Live in India
The biggest myth circulating in the Indian collecting community is that if a product doesn't have a direct shipping option to Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore on the official website, it is impossible to own. While the official Pop Mart US store might not offer direct shipping from USA to India for every single launch, that doesn't mean the product is unavailable to you.
In 2026, the global marketplace is more connected than ever. By using a US-based shipping address provided by comGateway, you can shop at US retailers just like a local resident. This allows you to bypass regional blocks and secure the Star People blind boxes before they sell out globally.
Myth #2: International Shipping from the US is Way Too Expensive
Many Indian shoppers shy away from US stores because they fear the shipping costs will exceed the price of the toy itself. This is only true if you use inefficient, direct-courier methods that don't allow for package consolidation.
The truth is that you can manage your budget effectively. Before you even place your order, you can use a shipping calculator to get a clear estimate of the costs. By consolidating multiple Star People figures into one box, a reliable package forwarder can significantly reduce the volumetric weight, making the per-item shipping cost much more affordable than you might think.
How to Buy Pop Mart Star People from US Stores
To get your hands on the Star People series, you should target major US retailers. Here is the standard workflow for 2026:
- Pop Mart Official US: The primary source for the lowest retail prices.
- Mindzai or Strange Cat Toys: Popular US-based designer toy boutiques that frequently stock the Star People line.
- eBay (US): Great for finding specific "confirmed" figures if you don't want to gamble on a blind box.
When checking out at these stores, simply enter your US shipping address provided by your forwarding service. Once the package arrives at the warehouse, you can trigger the final shipment to India.
Why You Need a Reliable Package Forwarder
Using a comGateway account gives you a tax-free US shipping address (typically in Oregon). This means you don't pay US sales tax on your Pop Mart purchase, saving you around 7-10% immediately. For Indian collectors, this is a crucial step in keeping the total landed cost low.
Furthermore, their dashboard allows you to track your items, see photos of the boxes to ensure they aren't damaged, and choose from various shipping speeds. If you have questions about the process, their FAQ section covers everything from storage limits to insurance options.
Navigating India Import Duties and GST
One of the "scary" parts of international shopping is the mystery of customs. In India, toys and collectibles are subject to specific regulations. You will need to account for import duties and the applicable GST/VAT when your Star People collection arrives at Indian customs.
As of 2026, the Indian customs department requires a valid KYC (Know Your Customer) document (like an Aadhaar or Passport) to clear personal shipments. To avoid any surprises, check our guide on customs tax to understand how these fees are calculated for toy imports. Being prepared ensures your package doesn't get stuck in a warehouse in Delhi for weeks.
Are Collectibles Restricted? Checking Prohibited Items
Before you place an order for a full case of Pop Mart Star People, it is vital to ensure the items are allowed. While PVC and ABS plastic figures are generally safe to ship, some special edition Star People figures might include batteries for LED features or liquid-filled "snow globe" elements.
Items containing certain types of batteries or liquids can sometimes be classified as prohibited items or restricted goods depending on the courier. Always check the product description. If the figure glows or contains liquid, consult the help center to see if special handling is required for shipping from USA to India.
Final Thoughts for Collectors
The Pop Mart Star People series is a landmark in designer toy history. Don't let myths about geography or shipping complexity stop you from building your collection in 2026. By using a strategic approach with a US address and understanding the import landscape in India, you can own these celestial pieces without the stress.
