India’s Toy Boom—Why Global Markets Are Snapping Up ‘Made in India’ Playthings

Image Source: Product For Indians

India’s toy industry has undergone a dramatic transformation, moving from heavy import dependence to becoming a global manufacturing hub. Thanks to policy reforms, quality standards, and rising domestic production, toy imports have dropped by over 52% since FY201819, while exports have surged by more than 60%.

Key Highlights:

Imports Down: A 52% decline in toy imports since FY201819
Exports Up: Indian toy exports hit ₹3,500 crore in FY23, up from ₹1,600 crore in FY19
Policy Push: Import duties doubled to 60%, BIS certification made mandatory
Manufacturing Clusters: Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu emerging as toy production hubs
Global Reach: Indian toys now selling in the US, UK, Germany, and the Middle East

The Make in India initiative laid the groundwork, but the 2020 policy shift truly accelerated the industry’s growth. Higher import taxes and strict Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification curbed lowquality imports, allowing domestic manufacturers to expand and innovate.

Indian toy makers are now focusing on STEMlearning toys, biodegradable materials, and interactive designs, aligning with global trends. With supply chains diversifying away from China, India is positioning itself as a reliable alternative for international toy brands.

Source: Economic Times, MSN Money, Press Information Bureau