Worldwide Customs & Regulatory Updates
New Regulations for Certain Toy Imports into Japan
Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare has revised articles in the Food Sanitation Law related to toy safety. The amendments expand the types of toys that may be considered potentially hazardous to children under six years of age.
With effect from October 1, 2008, import shipments affected by this change (including toys made of cloth) require a “food sanitation certificate” issued by Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare to be submitted together with the import declaration forms.
Affected shipments that do not have the correct paperwork may be refused entry into Japan. To ensure compliance with the new law, please check directly with the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (http://www.mhlw.go.jp/english/topics/foodsafety/index.html) whether or not your toy shipments are affected by this change.
If you have any questions, please contact your local Customer Service team.