China has officially released the Hazardous Chemicals Safety Law of the People’s Republic of China, marking a major overhaul of the country’s chemical safety governance framework. The law was adopted on 27 December 2025 by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and will enter into force on 1 May 2026.
The new legislation establishes a comprehensive legal basis for managing hazardous chemicals and significantly strengthens oversight across the chemical supply chain
Unified Legal Framework for Chemical Safety
The Hazardous Chemicals Safety Law consolidates existing regulatory requirements into a single, high-level law, replacing fragmented management approaches. It emphasizes risk prevention, enterprise responsibility, and full lifecycle supervision, covering activities from production and import to storage, transport, use, and disposal.
This unified framework enhances regulatory clarity and improves consistency in chemical safety enforcement nationwide.
Strengthened Lifecycle Management Requirements
The law introduces stricter controls throughout the lifecycle of hazardous chemicals.
Registration and Inventory Management
Enterprises handling hazardous chemicals must ensure proper identification, registration, and inventory reporting, including accurate disclosure of chemical hazards, quantities, and intended uses.
Mandatory Risk Assessment
Before engaging in hazardous chemical activities, companies are required to conduct safety risk assessments and implement corresponding risk control measures, reinforcing a preventive approach to chemical safety.
Tighter Controls on Imports and Chemical Use
The new law significantly raises compliance obligations for importers and downstream users of hazardous chemicals.
- Importers must complete safety evaluations and hazard information disclosure before chemicals are placed on the Chinese market.
- Users must establish robust safety management systems, including training, operational controls, and emergency preparedness proportionate to the risks involved.
These measures strengthen both pre-market and post-market chemical safety controls.
Enhanced Enforcement and Penalties
Regulatory authorities are granted expanded enforcement powers under the new law.
- Authorities may conduct inspections, investigations, and enforcement actions more rigorously.
- Penalties for violations are increased, reflecting the serious risks posed by hazardous chemicals.
- Legal liability extends to enterprises and responsible individuals, reinforcing accountability.
This marks a shift toward stricter compliance verification and deterrence.
Stronger Emergency Preparedness and Response
The law places renewed emphasis on chemical accident prevention and emergency response.
- Enterprises must prepare and file emergency response plans tailored to their hazardous chemical operations.
- Government authorities are required to establish coordinated emergency response mechanisms to manage chemical incidents and protect public safety.
This approach supports faster, more effective responses to chemical emergencies.
Implications for Industry
With the law taking effect on 1 May 2026, companies involved in hazardous chemicals should begin compliance preparations early. Recommended actions include:
- Reviewing and updating chemical safety management systems
- Enhancing risk assessment and control procedures
- Updating hazard communication, documentation, and training programs
- Ensuring import, registration, and reporting processes meet new requirements
Early action will help minimize regulatory risks and ensure uninterrupted operations.
Upcoming Implementation and Guidance
China’s Hazardous Chemicals Safety Law represents a significant step toward stronger chemical risk prevention, lifecycle management, and regulatory enforcement. As supporting regulations and implementation guidelines are introduced, businesses operating in or supplying to China should closely monitor developments and align compliance strategies accordingly.
Proactive adaptation will be essential for maintaining market access and long-term compliance in China’s evolving chemical regulatory landscape.
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