Australian consumers are being warned about a flood of dangerous counterfeit Labubu dolls entering the market, with authorities revealing serious safety concerns that could put children at risk.
Critical Safety Hazards Identified
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issued an urgent safety alert after testing revealed multiple hazards in the fake products. The counterfeit dolls, which mimic the popular Labuby collectibles, contain concerning levels of hazardous materials and present immediate choking dangers.
Key safety issues identified include:
- Dangerously high levels of phthalates - chemicals restricted in children's toys
- Small parts that easily detach, creating choking hazards for young children
- Poor construction quality with sharp edges and potential injury risks
- Missing or inadequate safety labelling and warnings
How to Spot Counterfeit Labubu Dolls
With the fakes becoming increasingly sophisticated, the ACCC has provided guidance to help consumers identify genuine products. "These counterfeit items are becoming harder to distinguish from the real thing, which makes them particularly dangerous," a commission spokesperson warned.
Consumers should look for:
- Official packaging with proper branding and safety markings
- Consistent paint quality and finish without rough edges
- Appropriate weight and material feel
- Genuine retailer receipts and authentication
Protecting Yourself and Your Family
The commission strongly advises consumers to purchase Labubu dolls only from authorised retailers and reputable sellers. Suspected counterfeit products should be immediately reported to the ACCC, and any concerning purchases should be returned for a full refund.
Parents and collectors are urged to thoroughly inspect any Labubu dolls already purchased and to remain vigilant when shopping online or in marketplaces where counterfeit goods frequently appear.
This safety alert serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of purchasing from trusted sources, particularly when buying products intended for children.
