What is 3C certification in China and why is it important for importing technology?

The 3C certification, also known as CCC, is the permit that allows many products to be legally sold, imported, or used in China. It is not optional; it is mandatory for a wide variety of categories. In practice, 3C certification in China is the equivalent of the European CE marking.With its own product catalog, GB standards, factory testing, and audits, if you manufacture, integrate, or distribute equipment shipped to China, it's essential to keep this in mind from the design stage to avoid surprises at customs.

Since its launch in 2002, the system has been expanding and refining. Today it covers more than 150 categories grouped into twenty-two major familiesAnd in industry jargon, it is often said that the catalog requires "more than 200 products".

What exactly is 3C certification in China?

The CCC comes from «China Compulsory Certification» and its objective is to verify that products meet safety, quality and, in certain cases, electromagnetic compatibility and performance requirements. This is a conformity assessment system implemented by the Chinese government through laws and regulations. to protect people, the environment, and national security. Initially, in 2002, the first batch covered 19 categories with 132 product types; over time, the scope expanded to the current 159 categories.

A key point is that the CCC is not a cosmetic seal, but a market authorization. Without the certificate and its marking, the required products cannot be manufactured, sold, imported or used in commercial activities. within the People's Republic of China. This requirement applies to both locally manufactured and imported products.

Authorities and organizations involved

The supervision of the entire system falls to the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), which coordinates implementation through the CNCA. In practice, the processing and issuance are carried out by designated entities such as the China Quality Certification Centre (CQC) and the China Certification Centre for Automotive Products (CCAP).These organizations manage files, coordinate audits, and validate the results of product tests, many of which must be carried out in laboratories within China.

In addition, there are international certification bodies accredited by CNCA for certain scopes, such as DEKRA Certification. If your product already has a recognized CB certificate, the process can be simplified.by allowing the use of accelerated tests or routes in certain cases, provided that the Chinese GB standards are aligned and the laboratory is accepted.

Types of schemes: mandatory, self-declaration and voluntary certification

The heart of the system is the mandatory CCC certification for products listed in the catalog. This scheme requires product testing, an initial factory audit, and subsequent annual follow-up inspections.All of this is in accordance with GB standards and specific application instructions for each family.

For certain types of product, the regulator allows a self-declaration method for the manufacturer. In that case, documentary and technical evidence must be uploaded to a regulated online platform. And, frequently, testing is carried out in Chinese laboratories to demonstrate compliance. Although it sounds simpler, it still requires absolute rigor: any discrepancy in data or samples can block approval.

Outside of the mandatory scope, there is voluntary certification, such as the voluntary CQC marking. This route certifies quality, safety, or additional features. Beyond being a legal requirement, it is often a commercial requirement requested by end customers or OEMs. The technical criteria evaluated are very similar to those of the classic CCC, making it a valuable asset in demanding tenders or supply chains.

What products typically require CCC?

The catalog includes components from the automotive sector, a multitude of electronic equipment and numerous consumer references. In the electrical sector, for example, switchgear and low and medium voltage switchgear cabinets typically require CCCand in practice they are considered "the basic certification" for participating in the Chinese market. Without a CCC, their use and installation are prohibited.

There are particularities that should not be overlooked. A frequently cited example is that of surge protectors: if the device does not integrate a battery packSome manufacturers indicate that the 3C standard does not apply to their products for sale and export. As always, it's necessary to consult the current catalog and the application notes of the corresponding GB standard, because the technical details of the construction can change the classification.

The certification process step by step

It all starts with the formal application to the competent body (e.g., CQC or CCAP), accompanied by the required technical documentation: data sheets, diagrams, bills of materials, manuals, and where applicable, CB reports. After the application is accepted, product trials are scheduled. (often in laboratories within China) and the initial factory audit to verify that the production system ensures continuous conformity.

The processing time varies because the certifying authority, the testing laboratory, and the auditors are involved. With good preparation, the process is usually resolved in about 12 to 20 weeks (3–5 months)However, it will depend on the type of product, the workload in China, and whether the documentation is complete. A practical tip: any inconsistencies between forms, test results, or factory data will lead to questions, rework, and delays.

Once the tests and audit are approved, the organization issues the certificate and authorizes the use of the CCC marking. It is essential that the marking is applied exactly as dictated by the rules of use. (dimensions, visibility, location by product type), since it is also subject to verification in inspections and customs.

Key new products: lithium batteries and power banks

In July 2023, the Chinese market authority announced that lithium-ion batteries, their packs, and mobile power supplies would be subject to CCC management from August 1, 2023. From August 1, 2024, no product in that group may be manufactured, sold, imported, or used commercially without CCCIt is a regulatory piece with a major impact on mobile phones and portable devicesportable devices and charging accessories.

Meanwhile, Chinese civil aviation has tightened controls on power banks in the cabin. The CAAC has indicated that, from June 28, 2025, external batteries without the 3C logo are prohibited on domestic flights.with illegible logos or belonging to models or batches recalled from the market. The measure is in response to incidents of smoke and fires in onboard lithium batteries.

Chinese media have reported recalls of some batches of well-known brands such as Baseus, Anker, and Ugreen. If you're traveling within China, don't take any chances: make sure your power bank has the 3C seal clearly visible.In Europe, for now, EASA has not replicated that policy; the usual limitation is not to exceed 100 Wh (approximately 27.000 mAh) and the total number of personal devices per passenger. Note that these aviation regulations coexist with the CCC's product obligations for market entry.

CCC Marking: Correct Use and Good Practices

Once the certificate has been granted, the product must include the CCC marking following the instructions for size, contrast and location that correspond to its category. Improper use of the logo or unauthorized variations may result in penalties or product recallsMaintain traceability of batches and labeling, and ensure that suppliers and OEMs comply with the certifying body's guidelines.

Remember that marking is not a substitute for documentation. User guides, technical labels, and instructions must be aligned with the approved version. in the file, including references to GB standards, models, voltages and safety warnings where applicable.

How to expedite the process of obtaining a CCC?

The trick is to prepare thoroughly. Validating the applicability of the catalog, finalizing the design according to the GB standard, and pre-auditing the factory prevents surprises.If you have an aligned CB Test Certificate, verify its equivalence with the current GB version and the laboratory's acceptance of it. And, of course, check that the samples you send for testing reflect the standard product.

Coordination is everything: documentation without gaps, faithful translations into Chinese, and clear roles between engineering, quality, and the agency. Smooth communication with the Chinese laboratory and the certifier reduces downtime. and avoids rework. Ideally, you should assign a project coordinator with experience in CCC files.

Partners and specialized support services

Having a partner established in China and in the country of production makes a difference. Companies like Applus+ provide comprehensive support with offices in China and their own testing laboratoriescovering everything from regulatory compliance to audit support. Their typical proposal includes managing official tests, preparing technical documentation and translations, and on-site monitoring of the certification process.

• Determining the scope and type of certification: analysis of technical standards and confirmation of whether mandatory CCC, self-declaration or voluntary certification applies.
• Document preparation and reviewTechnical data sheets, lists of materials, instructions and forms for the authority, with translation and terminological verification.
• Trial management: coordination with official Chinese laboratories, sending representative samples and resolving deviations.
• Production audit: preparation, pre-audit, accompaniment on the day of the visit and closure of non-conformities.
• Monitoring and maintenance: organization of annual monitoring, attention to regulatory changes and support in product modifications.

There are also laboratories in China that support exporters and suppliers in the testing and evaluation process. BTF Testing Lab (Shenzhen) assists in 3C testing, evaluation, and certification to accelerate market entry with modern facilities and specialized technical equipment. If you already work with organizations like DEKRA for other schemes, you can explore synergies once the scope is accredited by CNCA.

Documentation, testing and audits: what the certifier expects

For the technical file, the certifier expects total consistency between the documentation and what is seen in the factory and in the laboratory. Bills of materials with cross-references, drawings with signed revisions, manuals and labels as they will be marketedConsistent nomenclature between application and products... Everything helps to avoid follow-up questions.

In trials, the critical point is to use representative samples defined in the dossier. If you change a critical component after testing, the agency may request retesting. or even repeat parts of the audit. Implement internal change controls and align purchasing, engineering, and quality before shipping anything to China.

Frequently asked questions about 3C certification in China

• How long does it take to obtain the CCC? It depends on the product, laboratory, and audit dates. A typical timeframe, with good advice, is 3 to 5 months. Document errors, non-conforming samples, or changes in scope extend the timeframe.
• Who issues the certificate? La CNCA It oversees and designates entities that issue the certificate, such as CQC or CCAP, as well as other accredited bodies for specific scopes. The laboratory that performs the tests must be approved by the authority and is often located in China.
• Does a CB certificate help with acceleration? In many cases it helps, provided the CB standard corresponds to the current GB standard and the laboratory is accredited. The accrediting body will assess the equivalence and may reduce the number of tests or accept results, but it is not automatic.
• Can I fly in China with a power bank without 3C? No, not on domestic flights in China. The CAAC prohibits bringing external batteries on board without a clear 3C logo or from recalled batches. Check the markings, and if you have any doubts, avoid problems at security.

The CCC is the key to entering the Chinese market with legal certainty, and its success depends on fully understanding its scope, preparing the tests, and auditing your factory with a continuous compliance mindset. With a clear strategy, local technical support, and disciplined change management, you'll avoid delays, denials, and border issues.especially in sensitive families such as lithium batteries, electrical equipment and consumer electronics.