On April 10, the European Parliament and EU member states reached an agreement to make toys safer for children. Under the new plan, stricter safety standards will be applied to all toys sold in the EU, including an expanded ban on harmful chemicals.
Tighter Chemical Safety Regulations
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The new framework continues to ban the use of substances that cause cancer, genetic mutations, or reproductive harm.
In addition, the EU will extend restrictions to include endocrine-disrupting chemicals, substances that can damage the respiratory system, or those that pose specific organ risks.
At the request of Parliament, the updated rules will also prohibit “forever chemicals”, such as per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS) and the most dangerous forms of bisphenols.
Allergenic fragrances will also be banned in toys designed for children under 36 months.
Digital Product Passport for Toy Safety
All toys sold within the EU will now require a Digital Product Passport (DPP) — a digital record proving compliance with EU safety regulations.
This innovation will allow authorities and customs officials to easily verify whether a toy meets safety standards and trace its origin, especially for online purchases from outside Europe.
Consumers will be able to access safety information and alerts directly via QR codes printed on packaging.
Polish MEP Anna Paszyk emphasized that,
“Although EU toy safety standards are among the strictest in the world, we must remain vigilant and continuously update regulations to address new risks — ensuring all toys, whether made in or imported into the EU, meet the same high standards.”
Comprehensive Safety Assessments Required
Before placing a toy on the market, manufacturers must conduct thorough safety assessments covering all potential risks — including chemical, physical, mechanical, and electrical hazards.
Toys will also be evaluated for flammability, hygiene, and radioactivity, taking into account the specific vulnerabilities of children.
In response to Parliament’s demand, toy manufacturers must ensure that digital and connected toys do not pose mental health risks to children.
The responsibilities of manufacturers, importers, and distributors have been clarified, including obligations for fulfillment service providers — companies handling toy storage, packaging, and shipping.
Online Marketplaces Face New Obligations
The regulation also clarifies safety responsibilities for online marketplaces, reflecting their growing importance in toy sales.
Platforms will be required to design interfaces that allow sellers to clearly display:
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CE markings,
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Safety warnings, and
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Links (via QR codes) to the Digital Product Passport before a purchase is completed.
This ensures buyers can access all safety details prior to checkout.
A Forward-Looking Regulation
Marion Walsmann, German Member of the European Parliament (EPP), stated:
“Even though the EU already has some of the safest toys in the world, one in five products withdrawn from the market for safety reasons is a toy. Updating the 2009 Toy Safety Directive is essential.”
She added that the new regulation enables faster EU responses to emerging scientific findings on hazardous chemicals and sends a strong signal:
“Protecting children, ensuring fair competition, and strengthening Europe as a business hub.”
Implementation Timeline
The new EU Toy Safety Regulation is expected to be formally adopted by the European Parliament and the Councilin an upcoming plenary session.
It will enter into force 20 days after publication in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU).
Member states will then have 54 months to align their national laws with the new requirements.