China's Labubu Plush Toy Smuggling: A $13 Doll's $260 Black Market

China's Labubu Plush Toy Smuggling Surge: A Booming Black Market In mainland China, the demand for Labubu plush toys has created an unexpected problem: widespread smuggling. Customs data from April and May 2025 reveals the seizure of over 400 of these popular toys. These toys, originally sold by a China-based retailer, are being purchased abroad and smuggled back into the country for resale at significantly inflated prices. One customs official stated, "We're seeing suitcases packed to the brim with these dolls." Consumers interviewed expressed their frustration at the scarcity and high prices. Evelyn Li, a Pop Mart shopper, noted, "It seems everyone is buying them." The crackdown, according to state media, is due to the inflated resale value—with one doll selling for 20 times its original price. This situation highlights not only the popularity of Labubu but also the challenges of controlling illegal trade in high-demand products.