There are various conformity marks in the world that prove that a product meets the requirements of a given market. The main certificate for many products in China is the CCC or China Compulsory Certificate. For which products is the CCC mark mandatory in the PRC, and how to obtain it?
CCC mark
The CCC mark, also called 3C, is a key certificate for many products sold or imported to the Chinese market. This means that certain goods from specific product groups must bear this CCC conformity mark.
What does the CCC mark look like?
The CCC mark consists of three letters CCC placed close together, framed by an oval.
What products must have CCC?
CCC certification is mandatory for, among others, the following product groups in China:
- electronics
- machinery
- toys
- construction materials
- medical devices
- automotive products.
Without the CCC mark, these other products cannot be legally introduced to the Chinese market or used in commercial business activities in China.
What organization manages the CCC system?
CNCA, which stands for Certification and Accreditation Administration of China, is the government agency responsible for implementing the CCC system. This agency is also responsible for managing the certification process and maintaining the CCC catalog. CNCA works with accredited certification bodies to conduct product testing, factory audits, and inspections.
The CCC process
The CCC certification process is complex and can be a challenge for companies unfamiliar with Chinese regulations. Below, we present the process step by step.
1. Identification
The first step is to check whether the product requires CCC certification. The list of product categories covered by the system is extensive and regularly updated by the Chinese government.
2. Preparation for compliance testing
If your product is included in the catalog, you must prepare the appropriate documentation. Documents such as technical specifications, test reports, and others may be required.
3. Product sample testing
Your product will be tested in a Chinese laboratory. The tests will be conducted according to Chinese national standards for the given product category. This process can take several weeks or longer.
4. Factory audit
Not only will the product be tested – in some cases, the factory must also be approved, such as your production processes and quality control systems. An audit like this usually takes several days.
5. Submitting the application
The relevant documents must be submitted to an accredited certification body in China along with the application.
6. Applying the CCC mark and inspections
If your product passes the tests and the production facility is approved, the exporter/manufacturer will be granted a CCC certificate and will be able to mark the product with the CCC mark and use the certificate.
Please note that compliance will be verified through regular inspections of the production facility. The CCC certification is renewed every year.
How much does CCC certification cost?
The cost of CCC certification can vary significantly depending on the product, its complexity, and how many tests need to be carried out. Companies also have to consider the costs associated with factory audits and regular certifications that are required to keep the certificate valid.
CCC certification costs from EUR 10,000 to 20,000 and more in some cases.
How long does the CCC certification process take?
How long the CCC process takes depends on many factors. The process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on factors such as the complexity of the procedures and the processing capacity of the certification bodies.
What is the difference between CCC and CE?
The Chinese mark and certification system CCC is similar to the European CE mark. Although both systems aim to ensure that products meet certain safety standards, there are significant differences in terms of processes and requirements.
Are CCC and CE the same thing? If a product has the CCC mark and meets the requirements of the Chinese market, it does not mean that the product meets the requirements of the European market. This rule also works the other way around.
The CE mark requires the manufacturer to, among other things, make a declaration stating that the product complies with EU law. The CCC system, on the other hand, requires independent assessment and testing by accredited Chinese agencies.
Do I need a CCC when exporting to China?
If you export to China or produce for the Chinese market, you must meet CCC requirements. Without the required CCC certificate, you risk having your relevant products detained at the border, penalties, and a ban on selling your product on the Chinese market. Therefore, it is crucial for companies to understand the CCC system, its process and comply with it.
If you want to obtain CCC certification, contact experts, and don’t let it scare you away from conquering the Chinese market!
