Thailand seizes illegal squishy toys over cancer-risk chemicals
Thai authorities have seized nearly 20,000 illegal 'squishy' toys from markets in Bangkok due to safety concerns regarding toxic chemicals and heavy metals. The Thai Industrial Standards Institute is taking legal action against sellers and importers who failed to meet national safety standards.
Why it matters
Consumer safety regulations are essential for protecting children from hazardous materials found in unregulated imported goods.
The authorities said the products may be contaminated with chemicals, heavy metals, fragrances and coating substances that do not meet safety standards.
BANGKOK – The Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) has seized nearly 20,000 illegal squishy toys worth more than 1 million baht (S$38,500), warning that substandard products may expose children to chemicals linked to cancer and other health risks.
Ekniti Romyanon, secretary-general of TISI, said squishy toys are classified as toys and are controlled products under TISI regulations. They must comply with Thailand’s safety standards .
He said the toys have become highly popular on social media and are widely sold across the country. However, inspections found that many products on the market did not display the TIS mark, raising concerns over consumer safety, especially for children and young people.
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