Major Policy Shift: DGFT Removes Key Import Condition for Toys & Games

The Indian regulatory landscape for toys and games has just undergone a significant transformation. On March 18, 2026, the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued Notification No. 64/2025-26, marking a pivotal move toward streamlining international trade. This update is a “must-read” for every importer, customs house agent, and toy retailer currently sourcing products from global markets like China.

Core Change: Deletion of Policy Condition No. 2(iii)

In a decisive move to enhance the “Ease of Doing Business,” the Central Government has exercised its powers under the Foreign Trade (Development & Regulation) Act, 1992, to amend the import policy.

The primary change is the immediate deletion of Policy Condition No. 2(iii) under Chapter 95 of the ITC (HS), 2022, Schedule 1.

What is Chapter 95?

To understand the impact, one must first look at what falls under Chapter 95 of the Indian Trade Classification. This category is broad and includes:

• Traditional Toys: Tricycles, scooters, pedal cars, dolls, and puzzles.
• Gaming Equipment: Video game consoles, board games, and parlor games.
• Festive Items: Articles for Christmas festivities, carnivals, or entertainment.
• Sports Goods: Equipment for general physical exercise, gymnastics, athletics, and other sports requisites.

Why This Matters: What Was Policy Condition No. 2(iii)?

Before this notification, Policy Condition No. 2(iii) acted as a stringent gatekeeper at Indian ports. Historically, this condition mandated that:

1. Mandatory Certification: Every single consignment of toys had to be accompanied by a “Certificate of Conformity” (CoC) from the manufacturer.
2. Safety Compliance: The CoC had to explicitly state that the products met the safety standards prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).
3. Independent Testing: It required proof that the toys were tested by independent, accredited laboratories.

By deleting this specific sub-clause, the DGFT has removed a layer of mandatory documentation that was previously required at the point of entry.

Key Benefits for Importers

This policy shift isn’t just a clerical change; it has real-world implications for your supply chain efficiency.

1. Faster Customs Clearance

One of the biggest bottlenecks for importers has been the verification of the manufacturer’s Certificate of Conformity. With this condition gone, customs authorities will no longer need to check for this specific document under the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) rules, potentially leading to faster turnaround times at ports.

2. Reduced Documentation Burden

The removal of the CoC requirement simplifies the paperwork involved in importing toys. This reduces the back-and-forth communication with international manufacturers, allowing for a more seamless shipping process.

3. Strategic “Ease of Doing Business”

The government is clearly signaling a shift toward trust-based compliance. By removing redundant hurdles, they are making it easier for global brands and local importers to bring high-quality toys into the Indian market.

Big Question: Does This Mean BIS is No Longer Required?

The short answer is: No.

It is critical for importers to understand that while the DGFT has removed a specific Import Policy condition, the Quality Control Orders (QCO) issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry remain in full effect.

• The Toys (Quality Control) Order: Most toys sold in India are still governed by this order, which mandates the BIS Standard Mark (ISI Mark).
• Safety Standards: The deletion of the CoC requirement under the FTP does not exempt you from ensuring your products are safe for children. You must still comply with relevant BIS standards (like IS 9873 and IS 15644).
• The Difference: The deletion simplifies the process of clearing goods through the DGFT’s lens, but the product quality must still meet Indian safety regulations.

Impact on the Domestic Toy Industry

For domestic manufacturers, this policy change presents both a challenge and an opportunity. A more relaxed documentation process at the border could lead to increased competition from international suppliers, particularly those in large manufacturing hubs.

Local players will need to:

• Monitor Import Trends: Keep a close eye on the influx of new products.
• Focus on Quality: Ensure their “Made in India” toys remain the gold standard for safety and durability.
• Leverage BIS Compliance: Use their local expertise to stay ahead of regulatory requirements that still apply to all goods sold in the Indian market.

If you want ISI Mark for toy please visit: BIS ISI Mark

Conclusion

Notification No. 64/2025-26 is a breath of fresh air for importers looking to cut through the red tape. By deleting Policy Condition No. 2(iii), the government has streamlined the entry path for toys and games. However, vigilance remains key—compliance with BIS safety standards is still the cornerstone of the Indian toy industry.

Stay Ahead of the Curve: If you are an importer or a business owner dealing in Chapter 95 products, now is the time to review your documentation process and ensure your logistics team is aware of this immediate policy deletion.