A new draft directive on toy safety with stronger rules has won the European Parliament’s backing. Manufacturers will have to ensure that toys are not harmful or toxic to children’s health. The MEPs adopted amendments to Commission proposals, tightening restrictions on the use of chemicals, fragrances and heavy metals and clarifying the rules on warnings.

Substances that are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic for reproduction could be almost completely banned. The new legislation will require Member States to carry out stricter checks on all toys that enter the EU market. Parliament said 80% of toys in the EU are imported from China. Manufacturers will be allowed two to four years time to adapt to the new rules after they come into force.

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