The 2026 Labubu Phenomenon: Why the World is Still Obsessed
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have undoubtedly encountered a mischievous, sharp-toothed creature with long ears and a wide, quirky grin. This is Labubu, the breakout star of The Monsters collection created by artist Kasing Lung. While the character has been around for years, its popularity exploded into a global frenzy that remains stronger than ever in 2026.
The hype began when global icons and influencers started showcasing these vinyl figures as high-fashion accessories, often dangling them from designer handbags. In Malaysia, the demand has reached a fever pitch, frequently leading to sold-out shelves at local retailers. This scarcity has driven savvy collectors to look toward the United States, where stock levels for exclusive editions and new drops are often more stable. However, getting these treasures from a US storefront to a Malaysian doorstep requires a bit of strategy.
Why Buy Labubu from US Stores?
For collectors in Malaysia, shopping in the US market isn't just about availability; it is about variety. Many limited-edition collaborations and regional exclusives are released specifically for the North American market. Stores like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and even secondary markets like eBay often carry inventory that never reaches Southeast Asian shores. Furthermore, during major shopping seasons in 2026, US prices can be significantly more competitive than local reseller markups.
The challenge, however, is that many of these retailers do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitively high. This is where using comGateway, a reliable package forwarder, becomes essential for any serious collector.
How to Navigate the Shipping Process
Buying from the US is simpler than most people think. When you sign up for a US-based shipping address, you can shop at any American online store as if you lived there. Once your Labubu arrives at the warehouse, it can be consolidated with other purchases to save on costs. Before you finalize your purchase, it is highly recommended to use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost accurately.
Understanding the total investment is key to a stress-free hobby. You should also take a moment to review the international shipping rates to get a clear picture of the shipping fees based on the weight and dimensions of your package. For those who plan on building a large collection throughout 2026, exploring Prime membership benefits can offer significant long-term savings on every shipment.
Important Considerations for Malaysian Collectors
When importing goods into Malaysia, there are a few local regulations you need to keep in mind. As of 2026, Malaysia maintains specific de minimis values for import duties. If your total shipment value (including shipping) exceeds certain thresholds, you may be subject to SST or import duties. To ensure your collectible doesn't get stuck in customs, always check the list of prohibited items to ensure you aren't accidentally ordering restricted goods such as certain cleaning agents or batteries often bundled with electronic toys.
If you are new to the world of international package forwarding, you might have questions about how sales tax works or how long a package takes to arrive. The FAQ section in the support center is an excellent resource for troubleshooting and learning the ropes of US-to-Malaysia logistics.
Ready to Start Your Collection?
Whether you are looking for the latest "Have a Seat" series or a rare 1000% Mega Labubu, the US market is your best bet for finding authentic products at fair prices. By using a dedicated forwarding service, you bypass the limitations of regional stock and bring the best of global toy culture right to your home.
You might also like to check our guide on the specifics of the purchasing process. Read more: A Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Labubu from US Stores and Shipping to Malaysia.
Summary Table: Shipping Labubu to Malaysia
| Step | Action | Pro-Tip |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Get a US Address | Sign up with a forwarder like comGateway. |
| 2 | Shop US Stores | Look for "US Exclusive" tags on Pop Mart. |
| 3 | Consolidate | Wait for multiple orders to arrive to save on base fees. |
| 4 | Ship to Malaysia | Use the shipping calculator first to avoid surprises. |
Labubu is more than just a toy; it is a piece of contemporary art. By expanding your shopping horizons to the US in 2026, you ensure that your collection remains ahead of the curve and uniquely yours.
