Dangerous counterfeit toys have been seized from shops in Holyhead by our Trading Standards officers.

One hundred ‘Labubu’ style dolls and keyrings, which fail safety requirements and pose a risk to children, were seized yesterday (Wednesday 16 July) during visits to several shops.

Labubu dolls also known as ‘The Monsters’, manufactured in China by Pop Mart, are the latest ‘tik tok’ craze endorsed by celebrities, making them one of the most sought-after collectibles. Genuine products are limited edition and retail for between £30 - £250 each.

However, high demand and limited availability has seen a rise in counterfeit ‘Labubu’ items being sold globally in shops and online.

A number of fake versions have been found to be poorly constructed, limbs coming off easily, seams ripping apart, misshapen features and removeable small parts, such as eyes, hands and feet, that could present a choking hazard, in addition some which were tested were also found to contain harmful dyes and toxic plastics.

Genuine ‘Labubu’ dolls come in original branded packaging with security labels and are clearly marked with the address of the UK importer. There shouldn’t be any tape closing the box. Genuine products also have a QR code that links directly to the official Pop Mart website.

Public Protection Portfolio holder, Councillor Nicola Roberts, said, “Unscrupulous traders are supplying counterfeit versions of the latest craze at lower prices. Selling cheap knock off that doesn’t meet UK safety requirements is putting local children at risk and we will not tolerate that. I’m pleased that these items have been seized by our Trading Standards officers.”

The public are urged to beware of purchasing items that are significantly cheaper than the RRP, and not to let children play with any ‘Labubu’ dolls which they suspect may be counterfeit.

Any traders who have these counterfeit items in their possession are urged to remove them from sale and return them to their supplier.

Anyone seeing these items for sale on Anglesey are urged to report them to Anglesey Trading Standards by emailing ⁠tradingstandards@anglesey.gov.wales or calling Citizens Advice Consumer Services helpline on 0808 223 1133, with details of where they are being sold.

Ends 17 July 2025