Banning of Chinese toys- Kids’ Story

Government of India has prohibited import of ‘Toys' from China appearing under ITC Codes 9501, 9502, 9503 of Schedule - I of ITC(HS) Classifications of Export and Import Items. The prohibition has come with effect from 23 January 2009 and will remain in force for six months. Prohibition covers following toys from China:

9501 Wheeled toys designed to be ridden by children (for example, tricycles, scooters, pedal cars); dolls' carriages

9502 Dolls representing only human beings

9503 Other toys; reduced-size ("scale") models and similar recreational models, working or not; puzzles of all kinds

Although DGFT notification No. 82 /(RE-2008)/2004-2009 dated 23 January 2009 says that "Import of Toy" are prohibited, since the prohibition covers all goods falling under Codes 9501, 9502, 9503, even parts of such toys are covered within the said prohibition. The apparent reason for import ban on Chinese toys is concern about child safety. It is believed that Chinese toys contain high level of toxicity injurious to the health of a child. High levels of lead in children's bodies can cause physical illnesses, including diarrhea and nausea, and can also, reportedly, harm children's intellectual development and their IQ levels. Phthalates -DEHP, DBP and BBP, commonly added to plastic products to make them soft and pliable, found in soft plastic toys may cause serious long-term side effects, such as hormone malfunctioning and reproductive defects. CPC and other hazardous chemicals used in doll dress are believed to be carcinogenic. It is also alleged that Chinese toys have loose small parts which may come off from the toys while playing and may be a health hazard when swallowed by the child.

In recent months, Chinese toys have created a scare worldwide for above reasons and led to recall of many toys. Mattel recalled "Sarge" vehicles, Dora the Explorer products, gangly dolls of Big Bird from Sesame Street and almost a million other toys from its Fisher-Price line and Nickelodeon characters, all manufactured in China. RC2's Thomas & Friends Wooden Railway toy line were recalled. In January 2009, DDI Inc., Iowa, USA recalled Toy Construction Play Sets and Fantas-Eyes Inc., New York, USA recalled High School Musical Manicure Kits all manufactured in China due to lead containment. A comprehensive list of the Chinese toys recalled in recent months in USA can be accessed @ . I

T is really very scary to know that our children are playing with life threatening Chinese toys and it appears that Government has really done a commendable job. USA and European countries have taken a lead in recalling the Chinese toys, and India, a latecomer joined the bandwagon by banning the import. Many countries in the world have quality standards for Toys & Children's Products. Most of these seek to limit potential hazards, such as choking or fire hazards that could cause injury. Children, especially very small ones, often put toys into their mouths, so the materials used to make a toy are regulated to prevent poisoning. Materials are also regulated to prevent fire hazards. Children have not yet learned to judge what is safe and what is dangerous, and parents do not always think of all possible situations, so such warnings and regulations are important on toys.