Toys
EU Representation for Toys
Toys sold in the European Union must comply with strict safety regulations to ensure that products intended for children meet applicable EU toy safety requirements. Because toys are used by children, they are subject to enhanced safety expectations and are among the most frequently recalled consumer products in the EU.
While most toys fall under the EU Toy Safety Directive (EU) 2009/48/EC (TSD), many toy-like or borderline products also fall under the General Product Safety Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR).
EARP acts as your EU Authorized Representative (AR) and Responsible Person (RP) for GPSR-covered toy products, supporting your compliance by serving as your official EU point of contact.
Why Toys Require Representation in the EU
Toys placed on the EU market must comply with the TSD, which establishes safety requirements covering mechanical, chemical, electrical, and hygiene risks.
The directive also requires manufacturers to perform a safety assessment and maintain technical documentation demonstrating that the toy meets applicable safety standards. This documentation must be available to EU Market Surveillance Authorities upon request.
Many toy products are sold directly to EU consumers through online marketplaces. Non-EU manufacturers must ensure that an EU-based economic operator is identified and that required documentation can be provided to authorities when requested.
Common Toy Products
Toys sold in the EU include a wide variety of items such as:
Plush Toys and Dolls
Costume Accessories, and Dress-up Items
Play Tents and Building Sets
Educational Toys and Puzzles
Toy Vehicles and Playsets
Where clothing includes electrical or protective features, additional CE-marking directives may apply. EARP ensures your AR/RP appointment covers the full scope of applicable legislation for all product variations.
Our Role as Your EU Authorized Representative and Responsible Person
EARP acts as an independent EU Authorized Representative and Responsible Person for manufacturers placing toys on the European market.
As your representative, EARP serves as the official EU contact point for Market Surveillance Authorities and ensures that required documentation and product information can be made available upon request.
EARP operates as an independent regulatory representative and does not participate in product import, distribution, or commercial sales. This independent structure prevents conflicts of interest and ensures that regulatory communication remains focused on compliance representation.
For a full overview of our AR/RP responsibilities, see:
→ /services/authorized-representative-responsible-person-gpsr/
Frequent Compliance Issues and Related Safety Risks
Non-Compliance Can Turn Toys into Safety Risks
If you primarily sell these products via platforms such as Amazon, or other online marketplaces, EARP offers a dedicated Online Marketplace Sellers service that includes tailored documentation and listing support. Learn more about our dedicated service for online marketplace sellers.
Toy products are frequently subject to EU market surveillance actions due to hazards that may affect children’s health and safety. Frequent issues include:
Small Parts Choking Hazard
Detachable or poorly secured small components may be swallowed by young children.
Chemical Exposure
Toy materials may contain restricted chemicals such as phthalates or heavy metals.
Sharp Edges or Points
Defective toy parts may cause cuts or injuries during play.
Strangulation Hazards
Cords or strings on toys may create entanglement risks for children.
Each of these safety failures typically originates from incomplete documentation or related non compliance.
Related Resources
Further guidance on children’s product safety
Lets Get Started
There’s no time to waste. Talk to the experts at EARP and know that you have 25 years of experience at your disposal. You deserve to focus on your products. Let us take care of your regulatory representation in the large and lucrative European market.
