The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has called on online retail giants Amazon, eBay, Kogan, and Fruugo to remove toys containing small, high-powered magnets from their platforms. These magnets, which are permanently banned in Australia due to the severe injuries they can cause if swallowed, are still being sold through these marketplaces.
Deadly Risks of Swallowed Magnets
ACCC Deputy Chair Catriona Lowe warned that small, high-powered magnets can lead to catastrophic, life-threatening internal injuries, especially in young children. Multiple magnets can stick together in the intestine or digestive tissue, posing a choking hazard. The ACCC's investigation found sellers listing these banned products online, prompting urgent action.
The magnets are included in toys such as Magnetic Chess and Magnetic Battle Chess, which are still available to Australian consumers despite the ban.
ACCC's Mandatory Safety Standard
The ACCC has implemented a mandatory product safety standard for toys containing these magnets. Following the issuance of takedown notices, Amazon, eBay, Kogan, and Fruugo have committed to warning customers about the risks and, in the case of Amazon, Kogan, and Fruugo, offering refunds to customers who purchased the prohibited products.
"We are urging consumers who have bought this type of product to stop using them immediately, keep them out of reach of children, and contact the seller for a refund," Ms Lowe said. She emphasized that online marketplaces play a critical role in preventing listings of unsafe or banned products.
Amazon's Response
An Amazon spokesperson stated that customer safety is their top priority. Amazon has implemented a policy prohibiting magnetic battle chess games from being listed in their store, regardless of local legality. They use advanced AI models and dedicated safety teams to continuously monitor every product listing, proactively identifying and removing risky items. Amazon is a founding signatory of the ACCC's product safety pledge.
The nationwide ban on certain types of magnets has been in effect since 2012. The ACCC continues to engage with online marketplaces to ensure affected customers are contacted and warned, and to prevent future listings of these dangerous products.
