Laboratory testing verified by The New York Times has found that clothing for some popular Labubu collectible dolls contains cotton from China's Xinjiang region, which is banned from importation into the United States under forced labor laws.

The finding affects the viral toy dolls that have gained widespread popularity, particularly among collectors and social media users. Labubu dolls are small collectible figures that have become a cultural phenomenon, with some versions commanding high prices in the resale market.

The United States has implemented restrictions on products containing cotton from Xinjiang due to concerns about forced labor practices in the region. The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act, which took effect in 2022, creates a presumption that goods produced in Xinjiang are made with forced labor and therefore prohibited from entering the U.S. market.

The testing results highlight ongoing challenges for consumer product companies in tracking their supply chains, particularly for products manufactured in China. Many companies have struggled to ensure their products comply with the U.S. restrictions while maintaining global manufacturing operations.

The discovery could have implications for retailers selling these dolls in the United States, as well as for consumers who have purchased them. Companies found to be importing goods that violate the forced labor prevention act can face seizure of products and other enforcement actions by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.