What are China’s Product Safety Regulations
China has been known as the World’s Factory, as an abundance of products are manufactured in China and then shipped to all corners of the world. It is crucial for companies that want to establish industries in China to understand China’s product safety regulations. This article goes over some of the fundamental product safety regulations in China.
China Product Quality Law
Just like the United States, China has various product safety regulations to protect consumers from risks associated with the use of products. The general legislation regarding product safety and liabilities is The People’s Republic of China Product Quality Law, which covers all products that are manufactured and sold in China, except products that are manufactured or sold for construction projects and military purposes. Imported products are also protected by product safety regulations. Additionally, there is The PRC Consumer Rights and Interests Law specifically to protect the rights of consumers. China also imposed many product safety regulations to target specific industries, including but not limited to cars, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, food, farm machinery, and children’s toy.
What Chinese Government Agency enforces China Product Quality and Safety?
State Administration for Market Regulation is the primary authority to enforce the product safety regulations and to supervise product qualities. The administration possesses the power including but not limited to (1). Inspect and investigate the products; (2). command the producers and sellers to improve the product, suspend the production and sales, and recall the products if the products are unqualified; (3). announce publicly regarding the disqualified products and its sellers/ producers; (4). Issue warnings; (5). Charge fines; (6). Revoke business licenses.
Penalties for Violation of Product Safety Laws of China
The producer or seller that breaches the product safety legislation can be charged for criminal offenses and be penalized by criminal sanctions, including but not limited to “monetary fines, confiscation of property, and imprisonment up to life.” The selling of unqualified medicine or food that results in death or other serious health issues can be penalized by death penalty. In addition to criminal sanctions, other penalties such as revocation of business licenses and suspension of sales and production are also likely to result.