China
22:25, 23-Jun-2017
Chinese cities ban toy ‘toothpick crossbows’ amid safety concerns
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Powerful mini-crossbows that shoot toothpicks are the new must-have accessory for schoolchildren across China. However, it seems the new toy has been caught in the crosshairs of concerned parents and school officials. What might appear to be harmless fun has many parents concerned about the possibility of serious injury.
Now Chinese cities such as Chengdu, Kunming and Harbin have banned sales of the toy. China’s two most popular e-commerce sites, Taobao and JD.com, have also taken action, and police are cracking down on shops near schools selling the dangerous gadgets.
The fired toothpick penetrated a can easily. / VCG Photo
The fired toothpick penetrated a can easily. / VCG Photo
China's Toy Safety Code stipulates that toys which might cause harm to children are not be permitted to go on general sale. But it seems the country's rapidly developing toy industry is still very dependent on input from developers and manufacturers.