In 2020, Japan officially implemented the Positive List system for food contact materials, marking an important first step towards more effective regulation of food contact material.

On 30 May 2025, Japan Government further refine the regulatory framework by issuing a Cabinet Office Notification No.95.  The notification amends the Part 3 (which is related to food contact materials) of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare (MHLW) Notification No. 370 of 1959.  

The main purpose of the change is to establish the regulatory framework into a system of the positive list (Clause A, which regulates the manufacturing process) and the “negative list” (i.e. Clause D, material-specific standards, which regulates the residue substances in final products).  

Below shows the highlights of the amendments imposed by the Notification No.95

  1. Strengthen the requirements on plastic material – introduce the overall migration requirements (<0.1 mg/cm2), and optimize the test condition for evaporation residue tests;
  2. Rewrite clause E ( which are specifications for application-specific implements, containers, and packaging) – removing strength test for container and packaging for food sterilized by pressure and heat; while move requirements for drink and milk container/ packaging into the material-specific standards (clause D), and incorporate their test methods into clause B (General testing methods for containers and packaging);

Following shows the summary of testing requirements for different types of food contact materials

The amendment has come into effective, while the amendments on the test requirements for plastic material will come into effective on 1 June 2026.

MaterialsTotal lead and total cadmiumHeavy metals as leadEvaporation residue/ overall migrationConsumption of KMnO4Others
Glass, ceramic and enamel    Leachable cadmium and lead
Phenolic, urea, and melamine resinsxxx Phenol and formaldehyde
Formaldehyde resinsxxxxFormaldehyde
Polyvinyl chloride resinxxxxDibutyltin, Tricresyl phosphates, and vinyl chloride monomer
Polyethylene and polypropylene resinsxxxx
Polystyrene resinxxxxVolatile compounds
Vinylidene chloride resinxxxxBarium and vinylidene chloride monomer
Polyethylene terephthalate resinxxxxAntimony and germanium
Polymethyl methacrylate resinxxxxMethyl methacrylate
Polyamide resinxxxxCaprolactam
Polymethylpentene resinxxxx
Polycarbonate resinxxxxBisphenol A, Diphenyl carbonate, and amines
Polyvinyl alcohol resinxxxx
Polylactic acid resinxxxxLactic acid
Polyethylene naphthalate resinxxxxGermanium
Other plastic resinsxxx 
Rubber materialsxxx Mercaptoimidazoline, Phenol, formaldehyde, zinc
Metal cansx x Arsenic, phenol, formaldehyde, epichlorohydrin, and vinyl chloride monomer

The amendment has come into effective, while the amendments on the test requirements for plastic material will come into effective on 1 June 2026.

https://www.cmatesting.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/EN.pdf

Visit us at Booth 3C-A41, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, from 12–15 January 2026! We provide comprehensive and professional toy testing solutions covering key international standards, including:

✅ EU: EN71, EN62115, EMC, REACH, RoHS

✅ USA: CPSIA, CPSC, ASTM F963

✅ Japan: JFSL, ST, PSC

✅ China: CCC (GB6675)

✅ Australia/NZ: AS/NZS ISO8124

✅ Canada: CCPSA

Your products deserve the most rigorous compliance support. No matter your target market, we help you move forward seamlessly.

For testing inquiries, contact our expert team:

Eva Kung

Phone: (+852) 2690 8230

Email: evakung@cmatesting.org

🎁 Like, Share & Visit for a Free Gift!

Like and share this post, then visit our booth to receive a “Dr. A+ lanyard” . Limited stock available!

To enhance site safety, The Buildings Department has issued a Practice Note for Registered Contractors (PNRC) 851,requiring Registered Contractors to arrange to take samples and conduct testing on protective materials in the manner specified inthe PNRC. The testing must be conducted by laboratories designated by the Government and accredited under the Hong KongLaboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS) or by Mutual Recognition Arrangements partners of HOKLAS. We are pleased to announce that CMA Testing Centre is now officially a HOKLAS-accredited laboratory meeting this requirement.

We provide the industry with comprehensive and authoritative flame retardancy testing services for protective materials, in strict compliance with:

✅ GB/T 5455-2014 (meeting relevant clauses of GB 5725-2009 & 2025)

✅ BS EN ISO 15025:2002 / 2016 (Procedure A – Surface ignition)

✅ BS 5867-2:2008 (Type ‘B’ performance requirements)

📞 For enquiries or test scheduling:

Eva Kung

Tel: (+852) 2698 8198

Whatapp: (+852) 6321 7993

Email: info@cmatesting.org

A heartfelt thank you to all the entrepreneurs, brand partners, social enterprises, and NGOs who made our festive marketplace a vibrant celebration of innovation and social responsibility!

From inspiring booths and interactive workshops to meaningful networking, every moment was lit up by your presence.

Relive the memories and highlights of the day now! Check out our event recap video here.

Thank you once again to everyone who joined us. Let’s continue to explore the limitless possibilities where technology meets purpose.


See you next time!

The excitement at the HK Brands & Products Expo continues! 🎉 Right after Christmas, Mr. Mao, CEO of Mian Yan, visited Booth 3B07 to share an exclusive way to enjoy authentic Chongqing noodles with foodies on-site. What happens when bouncy “Fish Master” fish balls meet authentic Chongqing chili oil? 🔥

The numbing-spicy broth paired with springy, fresh fish balls creates a double delight for your taste buds! Watch Mr. Mao demonstrate how to enjoy the most local Chongqing flavor ✨

The CMA+ platform accelerates the global expansion of food innovations like Chongqing noodles through market insights and branding strategy. We also provide international compliance support and testing services to ensure product quality and smooth market entry.

Come try it yourself at Booth 3B07! Taste the perfect match of authentic Chongqing noodles and fish balls. More surprises and discounts are waiting for you onsite 🍜

📍 HK Brands & Products Expo|Booth 3B07
⏰ Now ongoing|Don’t miss out!

Thank you for your companionship and support throughout the year.

May the joy and warmth of the season be with you as we welcome a brand new year!

On 26 November 2025, the new Toy Safety Regulation (EU) 2025/2509 was adopted in Strasbourg and published in the EU Official Journal on 12 December 2025. It replaces the previous Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC and applies directly in all Member States. The goal: greater safety for children and clear rules for the industry. CMA Testing welcomes the new regulation as an important step towards an even higher level of protection for children and greater transparency in the European single market.

Key Changes at a Glance

  • Stricter Chemical Controls
    Ban on CMR substances (carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic for reproduction), endocrine disruptors, PFAS (“forever chemicals”), and over 30 bisphenols.
    Tougher migration limits for heavy metals and BPA – only technically unavoidable traces are allowed.
  • Expanded Safety Assessments
    All toys must undergo comprehensive checks for chemical, mechanical, electrical, fire, hygiene, and radiation safety.
  • Digital Product Passport (DPP)
    Every toy must include a Digital Product Passport (e.g., via QR code) with CE marking, safety data, and traceability information.
  • Regulation of Connected Toys & AI
    Toys with microphones, cameras, or AI features are subject to additional assessments under the AI Act, Cyber Resilience Act, and Radio Equipment Directive.
  • Obligations for Online Marketplaces
    Platforms must ensure CE marking, safety warnings, and DPP visibility.

Implementation Timeline

  • Entry into force: 20 days after publication (early January 2026).
  • Full application: from 1 August 2030 – with a transition period of 54 months.

What Does This Mean for Manufacturers?

AreaActions
Product DevelopmentReview materials, eliminate banned substances, comply with new limits.
Safety ProcessesExpand testing, integrate new risk categories.
Digital InfrastructureBuild systems for creating and integrating DPPs.
E-CommerceUpdate product listings with CE marking, warnings, and DPP access.
Supply ChainAlign with manufacturers, importers, and conformity assessment bodies.

Opportunities for the Industry

  • Build trust: Transparency and safety as a competitive advantage.
  • Act early: Avoid bottlenecks and costs by adapting now.
  • Drive innovation: Develop safer materials and smart compliance solutions.

How can CMA Testing help you with the new toys regulation?

  • We are an ISO 17025 accredited lab. We can provide testing in compliance with harmonized standards referenced in Regulation (EU) 2025/2509
  • Technical file support, test plan and test protocol preparation
  • Safety assessment support for physical, chemical, electrical, and microbial safety-related risks
  • Testing support for wireless and connected toys
  • Inspections and factory audits
  • Digital product passport preparation support

Act now:
If you place toys on the EU market, now is the time to:

  1. map your product portfolio;
  2. evaluate chemical and digital risks; and
  3. prepare for the Digital Product Passport and the updated documentation requirements.

To find out more about compliance for toys, do not hesitate to contact.

Contact usEmailPhone
Clara Chuclarachu@cmatesting.org0755 8835 0808 – 8031
Yuki Zhengyukizheng@cmatesting.org021-64330500-338

Visit our booth (3B-07) to discover how we support businesses in going global. This year, we are showcasing innovative products from our InnoLIFE member companies, including Multy dynamics, “Fish Master” and “Feast Crown”.

We were honoured to have Dr. Wingco Lo, President of The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong and Mr. Robert Lok, Chairman of CMA Testing visit our booth and experience the delicious offerings. The booth was bustling with visitors, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere!

Whether you are a business looking to expand internationally or an entrepreneur exploring opportunities, come and connect with us to discover global possibilities!

📍 Location: Victoria Park, Causeway Bay | CMA+ Booth: 3B-07
📅 Until 5 Jan 2026

WINGS

🍜 Foodies, take note! WINGS is back at the Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo, bringing delicious specialties from mainland China!

This time, we’ve carefully selected high-quality agricultural products and food from Shiyan, Hubei Province, allowing you to taste authentic flavors right here in Hong Kong! Leaders from Shiyan, Hubei Province, were there to witness this exchange of food and culture.

Come to the WINGS booth (3A-35 & 36) for a culinary journey through China and discover hidden delicious surprises!

📍 Location: Victoria Park, Causeway Bay | WINGS Booth: 3A-35 & 36

📅 Exhibition runs until January 5, 2026

On December 7, 2025, the 2025 Changchun International Pharmaceutical and Health Industry Expo and the Changbai Mountain Ginseng Industry High-Quality Development Conference grandly opened. Guided by the core principles of “distinctiveness, internationalization, leadership, professionalism, and public participation,” the three-day expo comprehensively gathered global industry resources and cutting-edge wisdom, aiming to create a high-end platform integrating achievement display, in-depth exchange, and strategic cooperation. It not only vividly showcased the latest developments and future trends in the pharmaceutical and health industry but also injected new and strong momentum into the innovation and high-quality development of the biopharmaceutical industry in the Changchun modern metropolitan area and even the wider region.

In the highly anticipated Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and Overseas Chinese exhibition area, CMA Testing made a brilliant appearance with its professional solutions. At the “Changchun-Hong Kong-Macao-Overseas Chinese Medicine Overseas Matchmaking Conference” held during the expo, Ms. Sarah Cui, General Manager of CMA Testing East China, delivered a keynote speech entitled “Hong Kong as a Bridge for Chinese Enterprises Going Global.” Drawing on extensive practical experience, she elaborated on how CMA Testing, with its comprehensive service capabilities in international registration and compliance testing of traditional Chinese medicine, compliance verification of food-medicine homology products, efficacy and safety testing of functional foods, and intellectual property protection and patent application strategies in related fields, helps companies meet the challenges of going global. She particularly pointed out that Hong Kong, as an international hub, is a key node connecting the mainland and global markets, bridging different regulatory systems and standards. CMA Testing’s professional services can effectively assist companies in overcoming technical barriers and efficiently completing product access and brand development.

Go Global Case

As a member company of the CMA+ technology commercialization platform “InnoLIFE”, Ginpact also participated in this exhibition. The brand commissioned CMA Testing to conduct a compliance audit of its high-quality ginseng products, covering the products themselves and packaging labels, and successfully obtained authorization to use CMA Testing “A+” label.

This matchmaking event attracted representatives from over thirty institutions in Macau and Hong Kong, along with fifteen key local enterprises in Changchun. They engaged in lively and pragmatic discussions on the cross-border development and international cooperation of the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) industry. Representatives actively shared experiences, aligned their needs, and jointly explored new opportunities, models, and pathways for TCM to go global. CMA Testing’s deep involvement and professional sharing not only demonstrated its service capabilities in supporting the international development of China’s pharmaceutical and healthcare industry but also, through the high-level platform of this expo, further deepened regional collaboration and international cooperation, contributing professional expertise to building a new open and win-win ecosystem for the pharmaceutical and healthcare industry.