New GB Standard for Lithium Ion Cells and Batteries Published

12. February 2015

On December 05, 2014 the Chinese certification authority CQC (China Quality Certification Centre, chin. „中国质量认证中心“) published a new GB Standard (GB31241-2014) for Lithium ion cells and batteries used in portable electronic equipment, which will be implemented August 01, 2015. Lithium ion cells and batteries were not previously included in the official “CCC Mandatory Product Catalogue”. Manufacturers of lithium ion cells and batteries used in portable electronic equipment will now have the option to apply for a voluntary CQC Mark Certification. The CQC is already accepting applications for the voluntary CQC Mark Certification.

Lithium ion cells and batteries have become an important component in the new generation of portable devices. Safety and storage of these cells and batteries is crucial in overall safety of the complete product. The new GB standard is the first of its kind published by the Chinese certification authorities. Previously products in this category were tested and approved in accordance to the UN regulation UN 38.3 / UN Transportation Test.

Through product testing at accredited test laboratories in China, the CQC will ensure the safety of the lithium ion cells and batteries. Through this voluntary certification manufacturers will have a competitive advantage in their product. The Chinese consumer is becoming more selective in the products they choose and are willing to pay more for quality and safety.
In order to obtain a voluntary CQC Mark Certification products will need to go through tests in over 30 categories. Apart from the usual security requirements (safety parameter, durability, marking etc.), this certification will also require tests in regards to environmental aspects, safety plugs and charging attributes.

Are you a manufacturer of lithium ion cells and batteries for electronic equipment or are you looking for more information regarding new Chinese standards? If so, please call or email us anytime. We can be reached by phone (UK: +44 2071931135, US: +1 773 654-2673) or email for any questions or concerns you may have.

Also check our website if you want more information regarding CCC certification, the CCC certification process, CCC costs, and more information about our all-inclusive CCC certification package. You may want to look at our references page to see what some our clients have to say about us.

For more detailed information please download our free booklet “CCC Made Easy” here. You may also consider our book “A Brief Guide to CCC: China Compulsory Certification”, which can be ordered directly on Amazon here.