On 13 October 2025, the Council gave its approval on the Toy Safety Regulation. The new EU Regulation, not yet in force, will replace the current Directive. The European Parliament will have to approve the text before the finalised Regulation is published and enters into force on the Union market. In April 2025, the Council and the Parliament had reached a provisional agreement.
Position of businesses on the new rules
Toy Industries of Europe (TIE), representing toys manufacturers in the EU, commented on the Council’s approval and expressed their skepticism towards the new rules. While manufacturers remain committed to make toys that are safe and do not cause any harm to children’s health, the new rules might pose some significant challenges. In particular, TIE writes that drafting new documentation, adapting to a digital product passport system and to updated chemical limits will be too demanding. Especially for SMEs, the new Regulation might turn out to be unworkable and disproportionate. TIE urges for efforts to focus instead on implementing stronger market surveillance, increased customs enforcement, and ensuring clear accountability for online platforms.
What is changing with the new Toy Safety Regulation?
The new Toy Safety Regulation strengthens safety standards. Some of the key changes include new bans and restrictions of harmful chemicals, including PFAS and endocrine disruptors, and introduces the digital product passport (DPP) system to improve enforcement and market surveillance.
The new Regulation also takes into account the specific dynamics of online sales. It clarifies the responsibilities of online marketplaces, requiring them to allow sellers to display the CE mark, safety warnings, and a link to the digital product passport. This information must be clearly visible to consumers before the purchase is made.
Manufacturers of toys need to be ready and compliant
Manufacturers of toys, whether based in the EU or not, must be ready to adapt to the new Regulation. Currently, they must comply with Directive 2009/48/EC. Once repealed, there will be a transitional period to comply with the new Toy Safety Regulation.
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References:
European Commission (2023). Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on the safety of toys and repealing Directive 2009/48/EC. Retrieved on 15/10/2025.
Council of the EU (2025). Council adopts new rules to make children toys safer. Retrieved on 15/10/2025.
TIE (2025). Adoption of the EU Toy Safety Regulation by the Council of Ministers. Retrieved on 15/10/2025.
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