Nicosia:Cyprus, along with Croatia and Hungary, has received a formal notice from the European Commission for not complying with Directive (EU) 2026/192, which amends the toy safety rules to permit the safe use of cobalt.

According to Cyprus News Agency, the previous general ban on cobalt in toys was due to its classification as carcinogenic category 1B, mutagenic category 2, and toxic for reproduction category 1B under the CLP Regulation. The amendment allows exceptions based on the SCHEER opinion for specific toy components such as those conducting electric current and certain magnets or stainless steel parts.

The deadline for countries to notify their national transposition measures was 11 September 2026. Cyprus, Croatia, and Hungary now have a two-month window to respond and report full compliance. Failure to do so could lead to the issuance of a reasoned opinion by the European Commission.