BEIJING, Aug. 15 (Xinhua) -- The new mandatory product certification rules specifically tailored for power banks, lithium-ion batteries, and battery packs (CNCA-C09-02:2025) officially came into effect on August 15, 2025, replacing the previous framework under CNCA-C09-01:2023. The updated rules, issued by the Certification and Accreditation Administration of China (CNCA) on July 28, introduce a series of stringent measures to enhance product safety, standardize production processes, and strengthen full-life-cycle supervision of the power bank industry.
A key highlight of the new rules is the establishment of an independent 3C certification system for power banks, which were previously categorized under the broader "electronic products and safety accessories" category. This adjustment clarifies the certification boundaries and enables more targeted supervision of power bank products, which have seen rising safety concerns in recent years.
Another major addition is the ABCD four-level classification system for manufacturers. Certification bodies will grade enterprises based on multiple factors, including factory inspection results, national and provincial quality supervision data, corporate credit records, and consumer complaint feedback. Supervision frequency varies significantly by classification: Class A enterprises (highest rating) will undergo annual supervision, while Class B enterprises face at least two inspections per year with one unannounced. All inspections for Class C and D enterprises (high-risk) will be conducted without prior notice, with 3 and 4 annual inspections respectively, to curb substandard production practices.
The rules also overhaul the sampling and testing mechanism. Samples for type testing must now be collected directly from production sites by designated certification bodies or laboratories, replacing the previous practice of enterprises submitting samples independently. Synchronous video recording during sampling and testing is mandatory, and test samples must be retained for future verification, ensuring the authenticity and representativeness of test results.
In terms of certification model, the new rules adopt a three-step process: type testing + initial factory inspection + post-certification supervision, forming a closed-loop regulatory system covering the entire product life cycle. Post-certification supervision has been strengthened with expanded scope, requiring on-site sampling and testing that covers all product categories and manufacturers. If samples cannot be collected on-site, supervision will be extended to related supply chains to prevent discrepancies between certified prototypes and mass-produced products.
Requirements for 3C marking have also been refined. The CCC mark must be permanently affixed to a prominent position on the power bank body, with embossed anti-counterfeiting features that display diamond patterns under light to combat counterfeit certifications. For lithium batteries with size or process constraints, printed, molded, or sprayed CCC marks are permitted.
Existing valid 3C certificates issued under the old rules remain valid and will transition naturally through certificate renewal, product changes, or standard updates. Certification bodies are required to formulate supporting implementation details based on the new rules and complete filing with CNCA before issuing new certificates.
The implementation of the new rules comes amid heightened concerns over power bank safety. Earlier this year, a series of product recall incidents and aviation safety risks prompted the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) to ban uncertified, poorly labeled, or recalled power banks on domestic flights starting June 28. Industry insiders noted that the stricter 3C rules will accelerate industry reshuffling, drive out low-quality and low-cost products, and promote healthy competition among compliant enterprises.
As of now, over 700 enterprises in China hold valid CCC certificates for power banks, with nearly 300 based in Shenzhen. The new rules are expected to further standardize the 15-billion-yuan domestic power bank market and enhance consumer confidence in product safety.
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