China to Start Product Certification System
BEIJING, February 5 (Xinhua) -- Over 100 products essential to consumers' health and safety, environmental and national security will be subject to compulsory certification starting from May 1 this year, says the Tuesday-published China Daily.Foreign trade companies are especially reminded that any products that have not been stamped with the "China Compulsory Certification" (CCC) mark will not be allowed to be exported from or imported into China.
A one-year transitional period will be allowed for all the enterprises making products that are on the list requiring compulsory certification, but they must all have implemented the new system by May 1, 2003, says the paper.
The 132 products, including electric tools, household electrical appliances and audio-video equipment, have relevance tothe protection of human life and health, animals, plants, environment and national security.
Meanwhile, a set of applicable technical regulations, standardsand conformity assessment procedures, a single obligatory mark anda fee schedule are also featured by the system.
Liu Weijun, an official with China's Certification and Accreditation Administration, said, "The measure reflects the factthat China is determined to fulfill its commitments to the World Trade Organization members."
"We will treat foreign companies and their products the same way we treat domestic ones," Liu added.
Enditem