As an Indian toy manufacturer eyeing the US market, understanding key import regulations is crucial. Here's what you need to know:
Safety Standards and Certification
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enforces strict safety standards:
- Compliance with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA)
- Meeting ASTM F963 toy safety standards
- Adherence to lead content and phthalates limitations
A Children's Product Certificate (CPC) is mandatory, which must:
- Be based on third-party testing from CPSC-accepted laboratories
- Certify compliance with all applicable safety rules
- Accompany each product shipment
Labeling Requirements
Proper labelling must include the following:
- Country of origin
- Manufacturer or importer information
- Appropriate age grading
- Choking hazard warnings (if applicable)
A permanent tracking label containing the manufacturer's name, location, and contact information is also required.
Electronic Toys
For electronic toys, additional regulations apply:
- Compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules
- Submission of Form FDA 2877 to a local FDA district office
Compliance Strategies
To ensure successful importation:
- Invest in robust quality control measures
- Stay updated on US safety standards
- Partner with CPSC-accredited testing laboratories
- Maintain detailed records of all licensing and trademark paperwork
By adhering to these regulations and implementing thorough compliance strategies, Indian toy manufacturers can successfully enter the US market and tap into its potential.