The Chinese Government’s recognition of NZ certification and testing for electrical goods is great news for Kiwi exporters, says IANZ (International Accreditation New Zealand).
IANZ has been accepted by the Chinese Government as the accreditor of New Zealand testing laboratories under the agreement, which was announced during John Key’s meeting with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang this week.
Called the “Electrical and Electronic Equipment (EEE) Mutual Recognition Agreement”, it enables New Zealand to become the first country in the world to test, inspect and certify electrical products outside of China for the Chinese market.
“That means New Zealand can now export electrical and electronic equipment covered under the agreement, directly into China,” says IANZ chief executive Dr Llew Richards.
Under Chinese Law, certain products (including those covered by the agreement) require Chinese Compulsory Certification (CCC). That process involves testing of the product in an accredited laboratory; inspection of the factory production line; and certification of the whole process by an accredited certification body, recognised by the Chinese Government under the CCC scheme.
“Normally this recognition of certification and testing is provided directly by the Chinese Government. However, under this new agreement, the processes used in New Zealand, including accreditation, testing and certification, are now able to be recognised by the NZ Government and the Chinese Government will accept this NZ recognition,” says Dr Richards.
As part of the implementation process, a New Zealand manufacturer of high-end stereo equipment, Christchurch-based Plinius Audio, has had their product tested for electrical safety, and electromagnetic compatibility, by IANZ-accredited laboratories, and the whole manufacturing process inspected and certified by Telarc SAI Ltd.
“Their stereo equipment can now be exported to China and go directly to market, without any involvement from Chinese inspectors or further border controls,” says Dr Richards.
“This is the first such arrangement for CCC marking that China has signed with any western government so it is a major coup for New Zealand.”
