Table of Contents
- The Mofusand Craze in 2026: More Than Just Cats in Shark Suits
- The Philippines Price Gap: Why You Are Overpaying
- Top US Stores to Find Rare Mofusand Collectibles
- How to Ship Your Mofusand Haul from the US to the Philippines
- Calculating Costs: Is It Really Cheaper?
- Understanding Philippines Customs and the De Minimis Rule
- Step-by-Step: Your Mofusand Shopping Journey
The Mofusand Craze in 2026: More Than Just Cats in Shark Suits
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have likely encountered the adorable, somewhat surreal world of Mofusand. Created by Japanese artist Juno, these feline characters—most famously the cats dressed in shark costumes—have transitioned from viral stickers to must-have physical collectibles. As we move through 2026, the obsession has only grown, with Mofusand expanding into kitchenware, stationery, and high-end designer collaborations.
In the Philippines, the community of collectors is thriving. From Manila to Cebu, fans are scouring online marketplaces for the latest blind boxes and plushies. However, there is a growing realization among savvy Pinoys: the prices found in local hobby shops and secondary markets are often double or even triple what shoppers in the United States pay. This has led many to wonder if there is a better way to fuel their addiction without breaking the bank.
The Philippines Price Gap: Why You Are Overpaying
Why is there such a massive price difference? In the Philippines, Mofusand items are often imported by small-scale resellers who have to cover their own shipping, customs duties, and a healthy profit margin. By the time a Mofusand "Shrimp Cat" plush reaches a shelf in Greenhills or an online shop in Shopee, the price reflects those overheads.
In contrast, US retailers like Target, Amazon, and official Sanrio outlets often stock these items at standard retail prices. In 2026, a standard Mofusand blind box might retail for $12 in the US (approximately ₱670), while the same item in a Philippine specialty store could easily go for ₱1,500 to ₱2,000. When you are collecting a whole series, that "price gap" adds up to thousands of pesos lost.
Top US Stores to Find Rare Mofusand Collectibles
To get the best deals, you need to know where the US collectors shop. While Mofusand is a Japanese brand, the US market receives exclusive distributions and large stock allocations that the Philippines often misses out on.
- Amazon US: Often the best place for official Mofusand stationery and small plushies.
- Target: Frequently carries collaboration items that are much cheaper than reseller prices.
- Official Sanrio US: A goldmine for authentic Mofusand x Sanrio crossover merchandise.
- Specialty Boutique Sites: Many US-based "kawaii" shops stock limited editions that never reach Southeast Asian shores.
How to Ship Your Mofusand Haul from the US to the Philippines
The biggest hurdle for Filipino fans is that many of these US stores do not offer direct shipping to the Philippines, or if they do, the costs are astronomical. This is where a freight forwarder becomes your best friend. By using a service like comGateway, you get a tax-free US address to send your purchases to.
Using a how it works guide can simplify the process. Essentially, you shop at your favorite US stores, enter your provided US address at checkout, and once your packages arrive at the warehouse, they are forwarded directly to your doorstep in the Philippines. This method often bypasses the high markups of local resellers entirely.
Calculating Costs: Is It Really Cheaper?
Many collectors worry that shipping costs will negate the savings. However, the trick lies in consolidation. By buying multiple items and shipping them together, the cost per item drops significantly. Before you buy, it is a smart move to use a shipping calculator to estimate the total cost of bringing your haul home.
When you compare the international shipping rates against the 200% markup of local sellers, the savings become clear. For example, shipping a bundle of five plushies from the US might cost $30, but if you saved ₱1,000 per plush by avoiding local resellers, you are still ₱3,000 ahead.
Understanding Philippines Customs and the De Minimis Rule
In the Philippines, we have what is called the "De Minimis" value. Currently, in 2026, if the total value of your shipment (including insurance and freight) is under ₱10,000, you are not required to pay import duties or taxes. This is a huge advantage for Mofusand collectors! As long as your US haul stays below this threshold, your package should breeze through customs without extra charges.
However, always be mindful of what you are importing. Check the list of prohibited items before ordering to ensure that things like specialized electronics or certain liquids (if you're buying Mofusand-themed perfumes or lotions) are allowed. If you have questions about specific items, the FAQ or support center of your forwarder can provide clarity.
Step-by-Step: Your Mofusand Shopping Journey
Ready to start your 2026 collection? Here is the most efficient way to do it:
- Step 1: Get your US Address. Sign up for a proxy shopping service like comGateway to receive your unique shipping address.
- Step 2: Shop the US Sales. Look for Mofusand items on Amazon or Target. Pro tip: Use a buy for me usa service if the store doesn't accept Philippine credit cards.
- Step 3: Consolidate. Wait for all your shark cats and shrimp kitties to arrive at the US warehouse.
- Step 4: Ship to PH. Once consolidated, choose your shipping speed and wait for your delivery to arrive in Manila, Davao, or wherever you are located!
By taking control of the logistics yourself, you not only save money but also gain access to a much wider variety of Mofusand collectibles that simply aren't available in the Philippines. Happy collecting!
