In a surprise move, India on Monday announced that it had lifted the ban on import of toys from China provided they conform to international safety norms. India had on January 23 banned the import of Chinese toys for six months on grounds of public health and safety. According to a public notice by the Commerce Ministry, imports of toys from China will be allowed if they conform to the standards prescribed in 'ASTM F963' or 'ISO 8124 (parts I-III) or IS 9873 (parts I-III).' These regulations primarily deal with safety and health hazards. The government further stated that the imports from China will have to be accompanied by a requisite certificate from laboratories accredited to the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC). Following the restrictions on toys, the Chinese media had reported that Beijing was contemplating dragging India to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) challenging the ban. However, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Kamal Nath had said the ban was WTO-compatible. The toys market in India is estimated at Rs. 2,500 crore while the volume-driven, price-competitive Chinese toys are estimated to control 70 per cent of the global toys market.
The Hindu, 3rd March 2009
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