EU Council Strengthens Toy Safety Regulations with Enhanced Chemical Protections and Digital Product Passport

On May 15, 2024, the Council of the European Union adopted a negotiating mandate for updating the toy safety regulation to enhance child protection from toy-related risks. Despite existing stringent EU toy safety laws, the new proposal seeks to increase safeguards against harmful chemicals like endocrine disruptors and reinforce enforcement through a digital product passport (DPP).

Key improvements in the Council’s position include clarifying the obligations of economic operators and online marketplaces, expanding the list of prohibited substances in toys, and introducing specific obligations for providers of online marketplaces. The DPP will contain safety information accessible via a new IT system, aiding border control authorities.

The regulation aligns with the general product safety regulation and addresses new online sales realities. It also includes bans on certain chemicals, such as skin sensitizers and biocidal products, and updates rules on allergenic fragrances.

The adopted mandate allows the Council presidency to negotiate with the European Parliament, following the Parliament’s position adoption. This update aligns with the EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, aiming to protect consumers and vulnerable groups from harmful chemicals.