New EU Toy Safety Regulation

Toys

On 26 November 2025, the new Toy Safety Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 was adopted in Strasbourg and published in the EU Official Journal on 12 December 2025. It replaces the previous Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC and applies directly in all Member States. The goal: greater safety for children and clear rules for the industry.

Key Changes at a Glance

  • Stricter Chemical Controls
    • Ban on CMR substances (carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic for reproduction), endocrine disruptors, PFAS (“forever chemicals”), and over 30 bisphenols.
    • Tougher migration limits for heavy metals and BPA – only technically unavoidable traces are allowed.
  • Expanded Safety Assessments
    All toys must undergo comprehensive checks for chemical, mechanical, electrical, fire, hygiene, and radiation safety.
  • Digital Product Passport (DPP)
    Every toy must include a Digital Product Passport (e.g., via QR code) with CE marking, safety data, and traceability information.
  • Regulation of Connected Toys & AI
    Toys with microphones, cameras, or AI features are subject to additional assessments under the AI Act, Cyber Resilience Act, and Radio Equipment Directive.
  • Obligations for Online Marketplaces
    Platforms must ensure CE marking, safety warnings, and DPP visibility.

Implementation Timeline

  • Entry into force: 20 days after publication (early January 2026).
  • Full application: from 1 August 2030 – with a transition period of around 4.5 years.

What Does This Mean for Manufacturers?

AreaActions
Product DevelopmentReview materials, eliminate banned substances, comply with new limits.
Safety ProcessesExpand testing, integrate new risk categories.
Digital InfrastructureBuild systems for creating and integrating DPPs.
E-CommerceUpdate product listings with CE marking, warnings, and DPP access.
Supply ChainAlign with manufacturers, importers, and conformity assessment bodies.

Opportunities for the Industry

  • Build trust: Transparency and safety as a competitive advantage.
  • Act early: Avoid bottlenecks and costs by adapting now.
  • Drive innovation: Develop safer materials and smart compliance solutions.

⚠️ Act now:
Start a gap analysis – review chemical management, testing processes, digital documentation, and e-commerce compliance.

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