EU Toy safety rules agreed requiring all toys to be sold with a DPP
The European Parliament and EU Council of ministers have reached a provisional agreement on the revised EU Toy Safety Regulation aimed at enhancing the protection of children's health and safety, particularly in response to emerging digital risks and the rise in online toy sales. The legislation expands the responsibilities of manufacturers, importers, and online marketplaces, requiring them to conduct comprehensive safety assessments.
The introduction of a Digital Product Passport (DPP) for toys is a major component of the reform. All toys sold in the EU will be required to feature a visible DPP, accessible through a QR code on the product. A critical change for toy manufacturers is that the DPP for toys will replace the existing declaration of conformity needed to place toys on the EU market. This will streamline customs checks and improve market surveillance by enhancing traceability and ensuring quicker access to safety compliance data. It also empowers consumers with easily available safety information.
The second key feature of the new regulation is a significant expansion of the list of banned chemicals in toys. In addition to previously restricted carcinogenic, mutagenic, and reproductive toxic substances, the law now prohibits endocrine disruptors, skin and organ-toxic substances, and PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances). These new bans aim to significantly reduce exposure to hazardous substances known to harm child development and health.
Since the regulation is a directive it will need to be transcribed into national law for each of the EU member states. Once formally adopted in the coming months, will , with EU member states given 4.5 years to fully comply. The DPP for toys will therefore become a legal requirement by 2029/2030. Further specific rules for the toys Digital Product Passport will be prepared within 12 months from the legislation coming into force in a delegated act. The TRACID team is available to support Toy Manufacturers in their DPP journey.
