EU Releases New Toy Safety Regulation

In a landmark move for consumer protection, the European Parliament has officially adopted a new Toy Safety Regulation. While the EU already boasts some of the world's most rigorous safety standards, the rise of e-commerce and emerging chemical risks necessitated a significant legislative upgrade.

For manufacturers, importers, and distributors, this means a comprehensive overhaul of how toys are designed, documented, and sold within the European market. 

At GoCompliance, we are breaking down what these changes mean for your business and how to prepare for the 4 year transition period.

Why the Change?

Despite existing protections, toys remain the second most notified dangerous product in the EU’s rapid alert system. 

In 2023 alone, over €6.5 billion worth of toys were imported into the EU, with roughly 80% originating from China. The new rules aim to close loopholes that allow unsafe products (particularly those sold via online marketplaces) to reach children.

Understanding the New Regulation

1. The Ban on "Forever Chemicals" and Endocrine Disruptors

The most significant shift occurs in chemical safety. The regulation expands the list of prohibited substances to include:

• Endocrine Disruptors: Chemicals that interfere with hormonal systems.

• PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”): A total ban on the intentional use of per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances.

• Bisphenols & Skin Sensitizers: Stricter prohibitions on the most dangerous types of bisphenols and chemicals toxic to the respiratory system or skin.

• Fragrances: A ban on allergenic fragrances in toys for children under 3 or toys intended to be placed in the mouth.

2. The Digital Product Passport (DPP)

Compliance is becoming digital. Every toy must now carry a Digital Product Passport (DPP). This digital identity will:

• Replace or supplement traditional paper documentation.

• Enable customs authorities to perform faster, more efficient checks.

• Give consumers instant access to safety information and warnings via a QR code.

• Enhance traceability across the entire supply chain.

3. Mental Health & Digital Safety

For the first time, safety assessments must account for digital technologies. Manufacturers are now required to ensure that digital or "connected" toys do not pose risks to a child's mental health or cognitive development, marking a shift toward a more holistic definition of "child safety."

4. Heightened Responsibility for Online Marketplaces

Under the Digital Services Act (DSA), toys that fail to comply with these rules will be classified as "illegal content." Online platforms must now ensure that third-party sellers clearly display CE markings, safety warnings, and the Digital Product Passport.

What This Means for Your Business

The regulation provides a 4.5-year transition period. While this may seem like a long window, the complexity of reformulating chemical compositions and implementing DPP infrastructure requires immediate action.

Compliance Checklist for Economic Operators:

• Audit Your Supply Chain: Identify any PFAS or endocrine disruptors in your current materials.

• Update Safety Assessments: Ensure your protocols now include physical, mechanical, chemical, and mental health risk evaluations.

• Prepare for the DPP: Start looking at data management solutions that can support the Digital Product Passport requirements.

• Language & Labeling: Ensure warnings are translated into the local languages of the markets where you operate.

How GoCompliance Can Help

The "safe" threshold for toys has moved. Staying ahead of these EU standards is now about maintaining brand trust in a market where "illegal content" is just one click away from being removed.

At GoCompliance, we specialize in helping businesses navigate evolving EU regulations. From chemical safety audits to digital documentation strategies, we ensure your products remain compliant and your business remains competitive.

Is your product line ready for the new era of toy safety?

Schedule a call with one of our experts to learn more about our regulatory advisory services.

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