Toys made in Asia are numerous on the European market, and they are also the most closely checked products: they are intended for children. Here is what a small business that imports them needs to know, including the big change to come.
Today: CE marking
- Every toy sold in the European Union must carry the CE marking: the manufacturer declares that it meets the safety requirements (Directive 2009/48/EC). Ask the manufacturer for the declaration of conformity and the test reports, and keep them.
- The importer shows its name and address on the toy or its packaging.
- The warnings (for example "not suitable for children under 3 years") and the instructions must be in French.
What will change: the new 2025 regulation
Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 on the safety of toys replaces the directive. It entered into force on 1 January 2026, but its rules will apply from 1 August 2030 (transition period). The big new feature: each toy will need a digital product passport, available online through a QR code, which customs will be able to check. Serious Asian manufacturers are already preparing for it: it is a good question to ask a future supplier.
Inspection in France: DGCCRF and customs.
The rule common to all products
Since 13 December 2024, the European regulation on general product safety (Regulation (EU) 2023/988) requires a responsible economic operator established in the European Union (often the importer) to be indicated, with its contact details, on the product, its packaging or an accompanying document. A company that imports from China, Vietnam or Thailand to sell in France becomes this operator: it is the one that answers for the product.
To go further
Looking for a manufacturer in Asia, verified in the official register of its country?
Publish a requestSources (consulted on 1 November 2026): European Commission, "Toy safety" and "Stronger toy safety rules enter into force" (23/12/2025); Directive 2009/48/EC; Regulation (EU) 2025/2509.
For information only, up to date on 1 November 2026. General information, not legal advice: check the official text (EUR-Lex) and ask the inspection authority before selling. This information does not engage the liability of Passerelle France-Asie.