We share how businesses can mitigate risks associated with unsafe, non-compliant products and contribute to a safer, more responsible market environment.
The Ethical Supply Chain Program (ESCP), stands firmly for the ethical production of goods, supporting businesses to source responsibly and deliver consumers high-quality products, produced in a socially responsible manner. As a globally recognized certification body, we provide a robust framework that empowers companies to work with certified and ethical suppliers.
A recent petition launched by ToyIndustries of Europe (TIE) is calling for stronger EU action against unsafe toys flooding the market through online platforms. A joint investigation by TIE and national toy associations found that 80% of toys purchased from non-EU, unknown sellers via major online marketplaces failed to meet EU safety standards. The non-compliant products were bought from sites includingAllegro, AliExpress, Amazon Marketplace, Bol, Cdiscount, Fruugo, Light In TheBox, Shein, Temu and Wish. These findings highlight the urgent need for businesses to adopt ethical sourcing practices to protect consumers and uphold industry integrity.
At ESCP, we believe that responsible sourcing is not just an option—it is a necessity. Our certification program is accepted by over 98% of global brands and retailers, ensuring that companies can confidently collaborate with suppliers that adhere to rigorous ethical and safety standards. By integrating ESCP-certified suppliers into supply chains, businesses can mitigate risks associated with unsafe, non compliant products and contribute to a safer, more responsible market environment.
TIE’s petition urges EU policy makers to take decisive steps, including:
· Holding online platforms accountable for the safety of products sold when no other EU-based party is responsible.
· Strengthening enforcement of existing EU toy safety regulations.
· Improving customs checks to prevent the entry of non-compliant toy shipments.
· Implementing the Digital Services Act (DSA) more rigorously to ensure seller transparency and accountability.
Catherine Van Reeth, director general of TIE urged: “Every euro spent on an unsafe toy is a euro not spent on a safe toy, toy companies across Europe, 99% of which are SMEs, take full responsibility for the safety of their products. When no EU-based party is responsible, online platforms must ensure the safety of toys sold on their sites. This petition is an opportunity for every European toy business to speak up and demand action.”
While stronger regulations are essential, businesses must take proactive measures to ensure ethical sourcing. The Ethical Supply Chain Program provides a suite of tools, including the Connect Platform, which enables companies to identify and engage with certified suppliers seamlessly. Additionally, our capacity-building programs help suppliers maintain compliance with global ethical standards, fostering long-term improvements in manufacturing practices.
Unsafe and unethical sourcing practices not only endanger consumers but also threaten the credibility of businesses. Through ESCP certification, companies can demonstrate their commitment to ethical production, building trust with consumers and stakeholders alike.
In addition to supporting the TIE’s petition at www.StopIllegalToys.eu, we take this opportunity to urge all businesses in the toy industry and beyond to recognize the importance of ethical supply chains. By improving supplier qualification practices, or opting to source from certified suppliers, companies can align with industry best practices, ensure regulatory compliance, and contribute to a market that prioritizes safety, responsibility, and sustainability.
Together, we can drive meaningful change, ensuring that products sold in the EU—and worldwide—are safe, ethically produced, and beneficial to all stakeholders in the supply chain.
For more information on the benefits of working with certified suppliers, contact us at membership@ethicalsupplychain.org today.
