Geneva (July 30, 2025) – SGS, the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company, has published SafeGuardS 105.25 to inform stakeholders of the European Union’s draft proposal to revise toy safety legislation by permitting the restricted use of cobalt in certain toy applications.
On July 9, 2025, the European Commission notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of proposed amendments to Directive 2009/48/EC on toy safety (Toy Safety Directive). The draft directive, circulated under WTO document 25-4439, would revise Appendix A of Annex II to allow cobalt, a substance classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction (CMR category 1B), in the following use cases:
– Toy and toy components made of stainless steel containing nickel as an impurity
– Toy components designed to conduct an electric current
– Neodymium-based magnets (NdFeB) in toys, provided they cannot be swallowed or inhaled
According to the draft, the directive is expected to be adopted in Q4 2025, published in the Official Journal of the EU (OJEU), and enter into force 20 days later. It would take effect seven months after publication.
The proposed exemptions aim to balance safety concerns with the technical and functional requirements of specific toy components. If adopted, they would mark a targeted relaxation of existing restrictions on CMR substances in toys under the current legislation.
SGS publishes SafeGuardS to help businesses stay current with key regulatory developments. SafeGuardS 105.25 offers a clear overview of the draft directive and its implications for manufacturers and suppliers of toys intended for the EU market.
Stakeholders are encouraged to review the proposed changes and monitor updates to ensure future compliance.
SGS Toy & Juvenile Product Services
SGS offers a wide range of services to ensure that products comply with relevant standards for childcare articles and children’s equipment. They provide consulting, training, product development, testing, audit and inspection services to ensure that products comply with strict regulations worldwide, demonstrating the safety and quality of juvenile products being brought to the market. After all, it’s only trusted because it’s tested. Learn more about SGS’s toy & juvenile product services.
SGS SafeGuardS keep you up to date with the latest news and developments in the consumer goods industry. Read the full EU Consults Over Proposal to Allow Cobalt in Certain Toys SafeGuardS.
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For further information contact:
Dr. Hingwo Tsang
Global Information and Innovation Manager
Tel: +852 2774 7420
Website: www.sgs.com/hardlines
LinkedIn: SGS Connectivity & Products
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of 99,500 dedicated professionals. With over 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and trusted specialized brands, including Brightsight, Bluesign, Maine Pointe and Nutrasource.
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