CCC (China Compulsory Certification or 3C) is a mandatory requirement imposed on certain products sold in China market. In 2001, General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) of China published “The First Catalogue of Products Subject to China Compulsory Certification” and all products listed in the catalogue must obtain the certification before they can be sold in China.
As of 2014, the following product categories are required to have 3C, and this list is also receiving constant updates:
Electrical wires and cables
Circuit switches, electric devices for protection or connection
Low-voltage electrical apparatus
Small power motors
Electric tools
Welding machines
Household and similar electrical appliances
Audio and video aparatus (not including the audio apparatus for broadcasting service and automobiles)
Information technology equipment
Lighting apparatus (not including the lighting apparatus with the voltage lower than 36V)
Sample Testing (Technical Support and Assistance provided);
Testing Completed with Test Report issued;
Initial Factory Inspection and arrangement for first-time factory (if applicable);
Documents Review for Certification Approval;
Issue and Release of CCC Certificate;
With a valid CCC certificate, the manufacturer can then proceed to either purchasing CCC labels, or applying for permission to stamp the CCC mark on the approved products. It is a requirement to apply the CCC mark on approved products before selling them in China.