China has published an updated general rule for chemical classification and hazard communication, GB 30000.1-2024, which aligns with the UN GHS 8th revised edition. This change, effective August 1, 2025, will affect how chemical importers, distributors, and formulators classify, label, and prepare safety data sheets for products sold in China. Overseas suppliers should review their compliance strategies to meet the new requirements.
Key regulatory update
On July 24, 2024, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) and the Standardization Administration of China (SAC) jointly issued GB 30000.1-2024, titled "Specifications for Classification and Labeling of Chemicals Part 1: General Rules." This standard replaces GB 13690-2009, which was based on GHS 4. The new rule will take effect on August 1, 2025, giving industry stakeholders a transition period to adapt.
Scope and applicability
The standard applies to the classification and hazard communication of chemicals under the UN GHS framework. It explicitly excludes intentionally ingested products such as pharmaceuticals, food additives, cosmetics, and pesticide residues in food. However, if workers or transport operations may be exposed to these substances, the provisions of this document still apply.
Updated terms and definitions
Terms and definitions now reference the UN GHS 8th revised edition, with 75 definitions moved to Appendix A. This replaces the previous Chapter 3 from GB 13690-2009. The change ensures consistency with international standards and simplifies cross-referencing for global chemical suppliers.
Addition of desensitized explosives
Physical hazard categories have expanded from 16 to 17, with the addition of desensitized explosives. A separate standard, GB 30000.X-202X, is under development to provide specific classification and labeling rules for this new category. A draft for comment was released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on June 16, 2023.
Changes to labeling and SDS requirements
GHS label examples from Appendix C of GB 13690-2009 have been deleted. The minimum information requirements for safety data sheets (SDS) have also been removed from this standard, as they are now covered by existing regulations: GB/T 16483-2008 and GB/T 17519-2013. Companies must continue to follow these separate standards for SDS content and format.
What buyers should watch
Chemical importers and downstream users should verify that their product classifications, labels, and SDSs comply with GB 30000.1-2024 by the August 1, 2025 enforcement date. The addition of desensitized explosives may require reclassification for certain products. Early preparation will help avoid supply-chain disruptions and ensure smooth customs clearance in China.
Source: Read the original report | Published: August 29, 2024