China RoHS, also known as “Administrative Measures for the Control of Pollution Caused by Electronic Information Products” or “China RoHS 2,” is a regulatory framework established by the People’s Republic of China to control the use of hazardous substances in electronic information products (EIPs). The regulation is similar in principle to the European Union’s RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) directive but has some differences in terms of scope and specific requirements.

Key points regarding China RoHS include:

  1. Scope: China RoHS applies to electronic information products (EIPs) that are produced or sold in China. EIPs include a wide range of products, such as computers, communication equipment, consumer electronics, and other electronic products.
  2. Restricted Substances: China RoHS restricts the use of hazardous substances in electronic information products. The substances of concern include lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺), polybrominated biphenyls (PBB), and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE).
  3. Categorization: China RoHS categorizes electronic information products into two groups:
    Catalog Products: These are products listed in a specific catalog, and manufacturers must comply with substance restrictions and labeling requirements.
    Non-Catalog Products: These are products not listed in the catalog. Manufacturers of non-catalog products need to conduct their own hazardous substance control and declare compliance.
  4. Thresholds and Exemptions: Similar to EU RoHS, China RoHS sets maximum concentration values for the restricted substances. Certain exemptions may be granted based on specific criteria, and some exemptions are time-limited.
  5. Labeling Requirements: Catalog products must bear a China RoHS label that indicates the product’s environmental performance. The label includes information on hazardous substance content and recycling information.
  6. Documentation and Reporting: Manufacturers and importers are required to establish records, conduct substance testing, and provide documentation demonstrating compliance with China RoHS requirements. This information may be subject to regulatory inspection.
  7. Conformity Assessment Procedures: Manufacturers need to follow conformity assessment procedures to ensure that their products comply with China RoHS requirements. This includes testing and certification processes.
  8. Continuous Improvement: China RoHS emphasizes continuous improvement in terms of reducing hazardous substances and promoting environmentally friendly design in electronic information products.

China RoHS aims to promote the sustainable and environmentally friendly production and use of electronic information products in China. Compliance with the regulation is essential for manufacturers and importers to access the Chinese market. Companies operating in China need to be aware of the requirements and obligations outlined in China RoHS and take necessary steps to ensure compliance.

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