The International Council of Toy Industries
The International Council of Toy Industries (ICTI) is a non-profit trade association that represents the global toy industry. It was founded in 1975 and is headquartered in Hong Kong, China. The ICTI is committed to promoting the safety, ethical manufacturing, and responsible marketing of toys worldwide.
The primary mission of the ICTI is to ensure the well-being of children through the production of safe and high-quality toys. The organization works with toy manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to develop and promote safety standards and best practices in the toy industry. They also collaborate with regulatory authorities and consumer organizations to advocate for strong safety regulations and promote responsible toy manufacturing.
The ICTI operates a program called the ICTI Ethical Toy Program (IETP), which is an industry-wide initiative to promote ethical manufacturing practices in the toy industry. The program sets out a code of conduct that toy companies must adhere to, covering areas such as labor standards, health and safety, environmental sustainability, and business integrity. Companies that meet the requirements of the IETP can obtain certification, demonstrating their commitment to responsible and ethical manufacturing.
In addition to safety and ethical manufacturing, the ICTI also focuses on promoting responsible marketing practices. They encourage toy companies to market their products responsibly, avoiding misleading or harmful advertising practices that may target vulnerable groups, such as children.
The ICTI operates through its member associations, which represent toy manufacturers and related businesses in different countries around the world. These member associations work together to develop industry guidelines, share information, and collaborate on initiatives to improve the toy industry as a whole.
In summary, the International Council of Toy Industries (ICTI) is a non-profit trade association that promotes the safety, ethical manufacturing, and responsible marketing of toys. Founded in 1975, the ICTI works with toy manufacturers, suppliers, and other stakeholders to establish industry standards, advocate for safety regulations, and ensure the well-being of children through the production of safe and high-quality toys.