VIENTIANE: Laos has ordered the immediate suspension of the import and sale of Squishy toys nationwide after authorities warned that some may contain hazardous chemicals that pose health risks, particularly to children.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce issued the order on July 28, instructing provincial industry and commerce departments to halt the import and sale of uncertified Squishy toys and step up inspections of shops, markets, supermarkets, shopping centres and online sellers.
According to the ministry, market inspections found that some imported Squishy toys contained excessive levels of benzene, a chemical that can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and trigger allergic reactions.
The ministry also warned that long-term exposure to benzene may increase the risk of cancer, although no confirmed cases linked to the toys have been reported in Laos.
Businesses found importing or selling unsafe Squishy toys face product seizures, destruction of the goods, fines and other penalties under Lao law.
The suspension comes as Squishy toys have enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in 2026.
The soft foam toys, first introduced in 2017, have gained renewed attention in recent months through TikTok and other social media platforms, where videos featuring satisfying squeezing sounds, unboxings and collectible designs have attracted millions of views.
In Laos, the toys have become especially popular among children and teenagers as stress-relief items and collectibles, with newer versions available in colourful animal, dessert and cartoon designs.
The ministry's announcement follows several widely shared social media posts from parents who claimed their children became ill after playing with Squishy toys.
At least three separate incidents involving children who reportedly developed adverse reactions after using the toys have prompted health authorities to intensify investigations nationwide.
The reported symptoms included skin rashes, blister-like burns, eye irritation, fever and vomiting. Authorities have not confirmed whether the cases are linked but said investigations into the safety of the products are ongoing.
While the ministry did not directly connect the reported illnesses to the nationwide suspension, it said recent consumer complaints, together with findings from market inspections, prompted the move.
Authorities have advised parents not to buy Squishy toys for children while investigations continue and urged consumers to report unsafe products through the consumer protection hotline 1510. Laos Times
