China is poised to significantly tighten its regulation of hazardous chemicals with the implementation of a new national law on . The legislation, passed by the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress, elevates hazardous chemical safety management from administrative regulations to the level of national law, substantially increasing the legal authority and enforceability of compliance requirements.
The new law comprehensively strengthens the responsibilities of enterprises involved in the production, storage, use, business operations, transportation and emergency response related to hazardous chemicals. Key changes include stricter licensing access, increased penalties for violations, enhanced interdepartmental regulatory coordination, and a greater emphasis on supply chain compliance. This represents a systemic overhaul of China’s approach to managing risks associated with these materials.
To assist companies in navigating these changes, the “Hazardous Chemicals Safety Compliance Management Forum” will be held in Shanghai on . Hosted by the China Warehousing and Distribution Association, and co-organized by the Association of International Chemical Manufacturers (AICM) and Hangzhou REACH Technology Group Co., Ltd., the forum aims to provide clarity on the new regulations and practical guidance for implementation.
Increased Scrutiny Across the Lifecycle
The law’s scope extends across the entire lifecycle of hazardous chemicals, demanding a more rigorous approach to safety at every stage. This includes a focus on “dual prevention mechanisms” and “informatization supervision,” suggesting a move towards more proactive risk assessment and data-driven monitoring. The legislation also introduces tighter controls on transportation, a historically vulnerable point in the supply chain.
Penalties for non-compliance are set to increase substantially, signaling a stronger commitment to enforcement. Companies operating in this sector will need to invest in robust compliance programs to mitigate financial and operational risks. The law’s emphasis on supply chain responsibility means that companies will also need to scrutinize their suppliers and customers to ensure adherence to the new standards.
Forum Highlights and Key Discussion Points
The Shanghai forum will feature presentations and discussions covering several critical areas. Authoritative interpretations of the new law and implementing standards will be provided, alongside analysis of the latest trends in customs import/export supervision of hazardous chemicals. Practical guidance on chemical classification and identification will also be offered, addressing a common source of compliance challenges.
A significant focus will be placed on the “One Enterprise, One Product, One Code” initiative, a traceability system designed to enhance supply chain transparency and accountability. Updates on the revision of “GB15258 – Specifications for the Preparation of Chemical Safety Labels” and the latest global GHS (Globally Harmonized System) updates and China’s response will also be presented. The forum will address safety technical requirements for the storage of hazardous chemical reagent warehouses.
Who Should Attend
The forum is designed for a broad audience involved in the hazardous chemicals sector, including members of the China Warehousing and Distribution Association’s Hazardous Materials Branch, hazardous materials warehousing and logistics enterprises, and heads of chemical industrial parks. Companies affiliated with the AICM, as well as those involved in chemical production, import, usage, and waste disposal, are also encouraged to attend.
The event will also be valuable for institutions involved in hazardous materials storage facility planning and construction, logistics program directors at academic institutions, and suppliers of related equipment and services. Universities, laboratories, and research institutions with hazardous materials on site are also identified as key attendees.
Expert Insights and Regulatory Guidance
The forum boasts a high-profile lineup of speakers, including core drafting experts of the Hazardous Chemicals Safety Law, officials from the General Administration of Customs and local customs authorities, and senior experts from the Shanghai Emergency Management Affairs and Chemical Registration Center. Senior executives from prominent chemical manufacturers and hazardous chemical storage enterprises will also share their perspectives.
Ma Daqing, Principal Drafting Officer of the Hazardous Chemicals Safety Law, from the China Academy of Work Safety, will provide a key interpretation of the legislation. Chen Xiang, Head of the Dangerous Goods Section at Shanghai Customs Industrial Products and Raw Materials Testing Technology Center, will discuss evolving customs supervision trends. Chen Jinhe, Associate Chief Physician at the Chemical Registration Center of the Ministry of Emergency Management, will address safety requirements for reagent storage.
Implications for Businesses
The implementation of this law represents a significant undertaking for companies operating in China’s chemical sector. Beyond the immediate compliance costs, businesses will need to adapt their internal processes, invest in training, and enhance their risk management capabilities. The increased scrutiny and potential for higher penalties will likely lead to a more conservative approach to handling hazardous materials.
The forum provides a crucial opportunity for companies to gain a deeper understanding of the new requirements and develop strategies for successful implementation. The insights shared by regulatory officials and industry experts will be invaluable in navigating the evolving landscape of hazardous chemical safety in China. Registration for the event, which costs 980 RMB per person (with discounts available for members of the China Warehousing and Distribution Association and AICM, and for groups of three or more), is currently open.
