CCC: New regulations regarding product tests in China – Random Test Sampling
3. June 2014To further ensure consistent quality and safety of CCC certified automotive parts, the Chinese certification authorities have recently implemented a new system of product testing in China. The new regulations for “random test sampling” empower the CQC (China Quality Certification Centre, Chinese: 中国质量认证中心), and CCAP (China Certification Centre for Automotive Products, Chinese: 中汽认证中心) to randomly select parts from a facilities certification scope and require additional testing in a Chinese test lab. The selection may be made prior to the annual follow up inspection, or during the audit itself.
To date the regulation applies only to CCC certified automotive parts and includes the entire product range (interior trimming materials, headrests, seats, fuel tanks, etc.). You can find an overview of mandatory CCC automotive parts and the relevant GB Standards here.
It is possible to apply for an exemption for parts that are very expensive to manufacture and that are only produced in small volumes, however the decision as to whether testing in China can really be avoided is entirely at the discretion of the CQC or the CCAP.
Since May 2014, the Chinese certification bodies are executing random test sampling more frequently. It is important for automotive suppliers to take these random test sample costs into consideration and prepare for the possibility of higher costs in the future. The manufacturer is responsible for the associated costs and execution of the process, which can present a big challenge. To keep your time and effort as low as possible, we can assist you in managing your random sample tests. China Certification will coordinate and take care about all necessary steps for you, including:
- Communication with the responsible authority and clarification of which parts from the certification scope will require testing
- Assistance in preparation of the test samples and required documentation
- Complete customs clearance in China
- Transfer of the test samples and documentation to the test laboratory in China
- Review of test reports regarding completeness and accuracy of content
- Payment of all test costs and authority fees
- Transfer of the test reports to the CQC or CCAP
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you are unsure whether you are affected by random test sampling or if you would like to know more about the new regulations. We are able to provide you with reliable, first-hand information and to work out the best solution for your CCC project, due to our close relationships to the Chinese certification authorities.
You will find detailed information about CCC certification in our free booklet “CCC Made Easy” that can be downloaded here. You may also consider our book “A Brief Guide to CCC: China Compulsory Certification”, which can be ordered directly on Amazon here.
Please do not hesitate to contact us by phone (UK: +44 2071931135, US: +1 773 654-2673) or email with any questions you may have.
