On July 19, 2009, the new EU Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC) will officially come into effect. In order to facilitate the toy industry's adaptation to the requirements of the new EU Toy Safety Directive, the EU has provided a two-year transition period, while for chemical requirements, the transition period has been extended to four years. During the transition period, toys that comply with the old directive can still be placed on the EU market.

The new directive applies to any product placed in the EU for children under 14 years old to play with, and specifies the "safety requirements" or "basic requirements" that must be met for toys placed in the EU market. It is worth noting that the new EU Toy Safety Directive has comprehensively revised the "safety requirements" for toys, especially adding requirements and restrictions for many toxic and harmful chemicals.