Why Labubu is the Hottest Trend in 2026
If you have spent any time on social media lately, you have undoubtedly seen the mischievous, serrated-teeth grin of Labubu. Created by artist Kasing Lung as part of "The Monsters" collection, this character has transcended the world of niche art toys to become a mainstream cultural phenomenon. In 2026, the obsession has reached new heights, driven by celebrity endorsements, limited-edition drops, and a vibrant community of collectors who treat these figures as both art and investment.
The appeal lies in the duality of the design—Labubu is simultaneously cute and a bit devious. For collectors in the Philippines, owning a Labubu isn't just about the toy; it is about being part of a global movement. You might also like to Read more: Why Labubu is the Most Wanted Collectible in the Philippines Right Now to understand the cultural impact this character has had on the local market.
The Challenge of Finding Labubu in the Philippines
Despite the massive demand, local supply often fails to keep up. Pop Mart stores and authorized retailers in the Philippines frequently sell out within minutes of a new release. This scarcity has led to a booming secondary market where prices are often double or triple the original retail value. Collectors are frequently left frustrated by long queues and the uncertainty of "blind box" pulls when stock is actually available.
Because of this, many Filipino fans are looking toward international markets to complete their collections. Check our guide on Read more: Why Labubu Became the Must-Have Art Toy in the Philippines and How to Get Yours from the US for more insights into this growing trend.
Why Buying Labubu from US Stores Makes Sense
The United States remains one of the best places to source Labubu figures. Major retailers like Pop Mart US, Mindzai, and various designer toy boutiques often receive larger stock allocations and exclusive variants that never reach Asian shores. Furthermore, many US-based collectors sell rare, vaulted pieces on platforms like eBay or specialized toy forums, providing a treasure trove for serious hobbyists.
Shopping from the US allows you to bypass the local frenzy and often find better pricing, even when shipping is considered. If you are hunting for that one specific rare piece, you should Read more: How to Score Rare Labubu Art Toys from the US in 2026.
Step-by-Step: How to Order Labubu from the USA
Many US retailers do not offer direct international shipping, or if they do, the costs are prohibitive. This is where using a reliable package forwarder like comGateway becomes essential. By using a US-based shipping address, you can shop from any American store as if you lived there.
Sometimes, you might encounter a store that does not accept Philippine credit cards. In these instances, you can use the BuyForMe service. This assisted purchase option means the forwarder will buy the item on your behalf, ensuring you don't miss out on those limited-edition drops due to payment restrictions.
Navigating Shipping and Customs to the Philippines
Once your Labubu arrives at your US address, the next step is shipping from USA to Philippines. It is important to be aware of the local regulations to avoid any surprises. In the Philippines, the de minimis value is currently PHP 10,000. If your total shipment value (including shipping and insurance) is below this amount, it is generally exempt from import duties and customs tax.
To plan your budget effectively, always use a shipping calculator to estimate shipping cost before you commit to a purchase. This helps you understand the total landed cost of your new collectible. If you have more questions about how the process works, the FAQ section on the help center provides comprehensive support for first-time international shoppers.
Maximizing Your Savings with a US Address
For frequent collectors, the costs of individual shipments can add up. One of the best ways to save is through package consolidation. By holding multiple purchases at your US warehouse and shipping them together, you significantly reduce the per-item shipping fee. Additionally, looking into Prime membership benefits can offer further discounts on shipping rates and extended storage times, which is perfect for waiting for multiple Labubu releases to arrive.
In 2026, being a savvy collector means looking beyond your local mall. By leveraging US retailers and a professional forwarding service, you can ensure your Labubu collection is the envy of everyone in the Philippines. Happy hunting!
