China Regulations on the Administration of the Collection and Treatment of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
ENFORCEMENT TIMELINE
In continuous effect
Overview
The "Regulations on the Administration of the Collection and Treatment of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment" is a regulatory framework aimed at ensuring the proper recycling of waste household appliances and environmental protection in China. It imposes strict obligations on producers, sellers, and recyclers of covered products (televisions, refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners, PCs, etc.), spanning collection, dismantling, and resource recovery. Centered on the concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), it is a key framework promoting the development of a circular economy by preventing illegal dumping of waste products and operating a recycling treatment fund.
Enforcement Timeline
- February 2009: The regulation was promulgated.
- January 1, 2011: Took effect.
- July 1, 2012: With the implementation of the "Measures for the Collection and Use of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Treatment Fund," producers became subject to a mandatory fund contribution obligation.
- March 2016: The list of covered products was expanded from the original 5 categories to 14 (adding monitors, printers, copiers, etc.).
- From 2019: Ongoing revisions to the "Measures for the Administration of Qualification Licensing for the Treatment of Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment" have tightened licensing standards and optimized treatment capacity.
Business Impact
Japanese companies selling home appliances and office equipment in China need to establish partnerships with local collection channels and obtain appropriate recycling certification.