Extension of Concurrent Validity of IS 9873 (Part 1): 2019 & 2025 – Toy Safety - Detailed Information

The Central Marks Department-II under Bureau of Indian Standards has made an update regarding the implementation date for standard IS 9873 (Part 1): 2025 for the safety of the mechanical, physical properties and other relevant aspects of toys in India.

In order to assist manufacturers and licence holders in transitioning to the revised Standard, the BIS has provided an extension to enable both IS 9873 (Part 1): 2019 and IS 9873 (Part 1): 2025 standards to run concurrently. All manufacturers have to fully implement the revised Standard by 22 March 2027. This update is very important for all toy manufacturers, importers and those bodies/companies who hold a Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) approval for ongoing compliance and continue to maintain smooth functionality within the marketplace.

Revised Time for Update of Toy Safety Standards

According to the Latest circular, BIS has announced an extension for the concurrent application of the following two standards IS 9873 (Part 1): 2019  and IS 9873 (Part 1): 2025 until 22 March 2027 During this extended timeframe. After 22 March 2027, compliance with IS 9873 (Part1):2025 will be mandatory, and the 2019 version will no longer be accepted.

Check the process and fee of BIS Certification for Toy

Significant Changes Introduced in IS 9873 (Part 1): 2025

The 2025 standard has brought about some important changes, which include the following updates. 

• The packaging of toys needs a complete design overhaul because the required location warning labels will have different placement needs. 
• Certain toy categories require new safety standards that demand extra testing procedures. 
• The implementation of these updates will require time until safe toys become available for children.

Reasons Behind Extending the Implementation Timeline

This extension was approved. We understand the real-world challenges that licenses and applicants are facing, including:

• The packaging and warning labels need updates. The product design and safety features must undergo necessary changes. 
• The duration required for re-testing and documentation recovery needs assessment. 
• The BIS organization will increase the period for existing standards to remain current until new standards become effective according to existing needs, which will help organizations implement changes. 
• Instructions Issued for BIS Offices on Extended Implementation Period

The BIS is reminding all Regional Offices (ROs) and Branch Offices(BOs) to do the following:

• Inform all current license holders and handle new applications in their area about the recent extension.
• Encourage manufacturers to carefully plan and complete their transition to the updated standard IS 9873 Part 1:2025 within the new timeline provided.
• Additionally, this announcement will be shared with the Information Technology Services (ITS) department to be featured in the “What’s New” section on the BIS website.

Impact on Toy Manufacturers and Importers

This extension provides several important advantages to industry stakeholders, such as:

• Additional time to refresh packaging and warning labels.
• A change to modify product designs to meet updated safety standards.
• Reduced chances of facing delays in certification or penalties for non-compliance.
• Better planning opportunities for clearing out inventory and making production changes.

Manufacturers holding BIS licenses under IS 9873 (part 1):2019 can continue their operations without interruption during this extended timeframe.

New Government Instructions for Toy Importers After Timeline Extension

While the deadline extension provides a breather, BIS and industry experts urge manufacturers to expedite their compliance processes: 

• Manufacturers and importers should immediately start testing against the newest standards to avoid last-minute disruptions in supply chain compliance.
• To reduce testing costs and timelines, use the IS 9873 (Part 8):2019 grouping guidelines.
• Update packaging artwork and warning labels in advance
• Conduct internal reviews and testing as per the revised requirements

Conclusion

The extension of the concurrent running period until March 22, 2027, shows BIS’s thoughtful approach to ensuring toy safety while also helping manufacturers adapt. This decision allows for a smoother shift to the updated standard without putting child safety or compliance at risk. Toy manufacturers and importers are encouraged to take full advantage of this extended timeline. It is necessary to start preparing for the mandatory implementation of IS 9873 (Part 1): 2025 well ahead of the deadline.