Vietnam has been emerging as a global player in the toy manufacturing industry. In recent years, many businesses have started importing toys from Vietnamese manufacturers to sell in their local markets and make a profit. However, many newcomers to the industry often have questions about importing toys from Vietnam. Here are the top 7 key considerations:
1. What are the toy safety compliance and certificates?
In the U.S.
For toys intended for children under 12 years old, it is mandatory to have a Children’s Product Certificate (CPC). This certificate must be issued by third-party labs authorized by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to verify that your toy products comply with the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act (CPSIA) and ASTM F963 standards.
- CPSIA outlines safety, labeling, and testing requirements for imported toys.
- ASTM F963 is the U.S. standard for toy safety, applicable to toys for children under 14 years old.
- Electronic Toys: If your toys are electronic (e.g., RC cars), compliance with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations is required. If toys emit radiation, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval may also be necessary.
In Europe
Toys exported to Europe must comply with the EN71 Toy Safety Directive and bear the CE Mark. For toys exported to the UK, UKCA certification is mandatory in addition to EN71 compliance.
2. How to minimize the risk of toy infringement?
The toy industry is susceptible to intellectual property (IP) infringement. Here are four common scenarios and tips to avoid them:
- Popular Licensed Toys (e.g., Barbie, Superman, Minions)
- Ensure your supplier or your company has obtained proper authorization to produce or distribute these toys. Toys without authorization can be seized and destroyed during customs inspections.
- Trending Toys
- Some toys, like the 3D Gravity Carrot Knife, become instant hits. While reselling trending toys can be profitable, the risks of IP infringement are high as someone may later register a patent for such designs. Always conduct a thorough IP check before selling.
- Customizing In-stock Toys
- If you customize toys (e.g., adding a logo or custom packaging), ensure the original design belongs to the supplier and not an imitation. Perform patent checks for assurance.
- Designing Your Own Unique Toys
- Collaborate with Vietnamese factories under a signed Non-Disclosure, Non-Use, Non-Circumvention (NNN) Agreement to protect your IP. Once your toy starts gaining traction, file for a patent or trademark for long-term protection.
3. How to control toy quality in Vietnam?
Toy quality control is essential to ensure compliance with international safety standards and avoid defects. Third-party inspection companies are commonly hired, but their effectiveness may vary.
Recommended Approach:
Use a professional sourcing agent like Vietnam Sourcing Agent. With over 10 years of experience, they provide end-to-end quality control. For example, their process for plush toys involves:
- Inspecting raw materials (e.g., fabric and stuffing) for compliance with safety standards.
- Monitoring semi-product quality during production.
- Inspecting finished toys and packaging before shipment.
They also provide real-time updates via photos, videos, and calls, ensuring quick resolutions for any issues.
4. How much is the import duty on toys from Vietnam?
For the U.S.
Toys imported into the U.S. are generally duty-free under the HS Code 9503.00.00. However, additional taxes may apply:
- Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF): 0.3464% of the goods’ value (minimum $27.2, maximum $538.40).
- Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF): 0.125% of the goods’ value.
For the EU and Other Regions
Import duty rates vary based on the toy type and the destination country’s tax policies. Use the toy’s HS code to check the duty rate on the official customs website of your country.
5. How to ship toys from Vietnam?
- Express Shipping (e.g., UPS): Ideal for shipments under 300 kg. Delivery takes 7-10 days but is costly.
- Air Freight: Cost-effective for shipments between 300-500 kg. Delivery takes 7-10 days.
- Sea Freight: Best for shipments over 2 CBM. It is the cheapest method, with delivery times of 25-40 days.
For Toys with Batteries
Batteries classify toys as Dangerous Goods (DG). Work with freight forwarders experienced in DG shipments to handle necessary documentation (e.g., MSDS) and ensure proper packaging for customs clearance.
Vietnam Sourcing Agent offers tailored shipping solutions to meet your needs.
6. Vietnam vs. China: Which is better for importing toys?
China dominates the global toy manufacturing market, accounting for over 70% of global toy production, according to the China Ministry of Commerce. However, Vietnam is emerging as a key player, with its share in global toy production expected to reach 12.2% by 2025, up from 3.7% in 2020 (hmeonline.com).
Use Alibaba for China Sourcing
If you have an experienced procurement team, Alibaba is a good option for sourcing toys from China.
Choose Vietnam Sourcing Agent for Vietnam Sourcing
If you’re new to sourcing or need custom designs, Vietnam Sourcing Agent is better. They manage sampling, production, inspection, and logistics, reducing your workload while ensuring quality and compliance.
7. Additional Questions
What toys are manufactured in Vietnam?
Vietnam produces a wide range of toys, including:
- Plush toys (e.g., stuffed animals)
- Wooden toys
- Remote-controlled cars and trucks
- Building blocks
- Educational toys
- High-tech electronic toys
- Action figures
Can I import licensed toys from Vietnam?
Yes, but you must obtain authorization from the toy brand or ensure your supplier has it.
Can you trust toys made in Vietnam?
Yes, toys made in Vietnam are trustworthy. Even leading brands like LEGO operate OEM factories in Vietnam. The key is to partner with reliable manufacturers and conduct proper quality inspections.
By focusing on compliance, quality control, and trusted sourcing agents, importing toys from Vietnam can be a profitable and hassle-free experience.
Contact Vietnam Sourcing Agent for end-to-end support in sourcing and importing toys from Vietnam.