Detection and Identification of Unsafe Children's Products Sold on E-commerce Platforms

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry arising from reports in South Korea that several children's products sold on overseas e-commerce platforms were found to contain hazardous substances exceeding safety limits, how does the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore detect and identify similar unsafe products being sold to consumers in Singapore.

Under the Consumer Protection (Consumer Goods Safety Requirements) Regulations 2011, all children's products and toys supplied in Singapore must comply with applicable international safety standards.

The Consumer Product Safety Office (CPSO) under the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore conducts regular market surveillance on children's products and toys by testing selected products against international safety standards, including for the presence of hazardous substances. The CPSO works with both online and physical suppliers on an ongoing basis to ensure regulatory compliance, including with e-commerce platforms to detect and take down any non-compliant products. Where harmful substances exceeding safety limits are detected, suppliers are directed to cease supply of the product. Failure to comply with the CPSO's directions may result in fines or imprisonment.