Huaqiangbei enforces ban on uncertified power banks

Sales of power banks without a China Compulsory Certification (CCC) mark are prohibited in Huaqiangbei, one of the world’s largest electronics markets, according to the Shenzhen Administration for Market Regulation. 

The ban, which applies across China, officially took effect Aug. 1, 2024. It follows a broader regulatory push to tighten safety standards for electronic products. Under this effort, the CCC system — China’s mandatory safety and quality assurance framework — was extended to cover power banks and their key components, namely lithium-ion battery cells. The CCC scheme, overseen by the State Administration for Market Regulation in accordance with State Council directives, aims to safeguard consumer safety, national security, and environmental protection. 

Merchants in the Huaqiangbei market are now taking proactive steps to double-check their inventories, ensuring every product meets the CCC requirement. Some vendors have confirmed that they recently received guidance from authorities reiterating the ban on uncertified power banks. Only CCC power banks are available for sale in the market currently, they said.

Vendors in Huaqiangbei highlight labels such as “Flight approved” and “CCC certified” at their storefronts to reassure customers. Lin Songtao

A woman surnamed Ke, who was selecting a power bank in Huaqiangbei, told Shenzhen Evening News that the quality of power banks currently on the market is highly inconsistent. She said the CCC requirement addresses public safety concerns and makes the shopping experience much more convenient.

Ms. Yao, who recently purchased a power bank, noted, "We don't have professional knowledge, nor can we remember all the intricate product quality requirements. For us, a product with the CCC mark is a good one — it's the simplest way to tell."

The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) issued an urgent notice June 26 aimed at enhancing flight safety. Effective from June 28, passengers are prohibited from carrying power banks on domestic flights if they lack the CCC mark, have an unclear or illegible CCC mark, or belong to recalled models or batches.

However, foreign-certified power banks are not subject to the restrictions at Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport, according to an official guide issued by the airport. 

A power bank brand displays its certification documents prominently during a livestream. sznews.com

This measure is in response to a significant increase in incidents involving power banks and other lithium battery products catching fire or emitting smoke on domestic flights in 2024. In light of these safety concerns, multiple leading brands have issued recalls for certain products, and the State Administration for Market Regulation has revoked or suspended the CCC certification of several manufacturers.

How to choose a quality power bank:

1. Pay attention to the product information on the device, including the product name, model, manufacturer's name, trademark, rated input voltage and current, as well as rated output voltage and current. This information should match the details provided by the merchant.

2. Choose products that comply with relevant mandatory national standards (GB 4943.1-2022, GB 31241-2022), and obtain an invoice or other proof of purchase from the seller. This will serve as an important document for consumer rights protection in the future.

3. Select products with the CCC certification mark. The product surface should be clean, free from obvious deformation or mechanical damage, and the connection points should be free from rust. Both the packaging and the instruction manual should contain information in Chinese.

How to properly use a power bank:

1. Do not place the power bank near flammable or explosive materials during charging.

2. Do not charge the power bank too frequently or for extended periods. Remove the charger promptly once the power bank is fully charged.

3. If you notice that the power bank, its interface, or the charging cable is abnormally hot, stop using it immediately.

4. If the power bank is accidentally dropped or hit, check for cracks, bulging, or any loose internal components that may rattle. If any of these issues are detected, stop using the power bank. Do not attempt to disassemble, modify, or repair the power bank yourself.

5. If the power bank will not be used for an extended period, discharge it to below 50% capacity. Store it in a cool, dry place and avoid contact between the interface and other metal objects to prevent short circuits or abnormal discharges.