A major crackdown on uncertified squishy toys at Bangkok's largest wholesale market has uncovered more than 19,000 products suspected of posing health risks because they may contain carcinogenic chemicals and heavy metals.
Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) Secretary-General Ekanit Romyanon said today that officials seized 19,665 squishy toys worth a combined 1.01 million baht during inspections of six major retailers and distribution centres in Sampheng Market.
The operation followed an investigation into the sale of the popular toys, particularly on TikTok, where authorities monitored high-traffic online sellers before tracing the products to wholesalers in Sampheng Market.
Ekanit said squishy toys are classified as toys under Thai law and must comply with the mandatory Thai Industrial Standard before they can be sold.
Inspectors found that one of the six businesses was operating as both an importer and distributor without the required licence, while the other five were selling products without the mandatory Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) certification mark.
Retailers convicted of selling uncertified products face up to six months in prison, a fine of up to 500,000 baht, or both. Unauthorised importers face up to two years in prison, a fine of up to 2 million baht, or both.
Ekanit warned that many uncertified squishy toys are made from polyurethane and low-grade foam that may contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates and other hazardous substances.
Some phthalates have been linked to cancer and endocrine system disorders.
He said many of the toys are designed to resemble food and are scented, increasing the likelihood that young children may put them in their mouths.
Prolonged exposure to chemical emissions may also affect the respiratory system and trigger allergic reactions, while the moisture-retaining material can harbour bacteria and mould if not cleaned properly, potentially causing skin infections.
The secretary-general urged consumers, especially parents, to buy only toys bearing the official Thai Industrial Standards Institute (TISI) certification mark and its accompanying QR code, which can be be used to verify that the manufacturer or importer is licensed.
