Compliance when sourcing electronic products in China

In electronics, product sourcing in China demands a compliance-first mindset to avoid costly redesigns, delays and enforcement action. For companies that import goods from China, the critical path begins before a single component is purchased, with clear specifications tied to EU directives and restricted substances lists. Successful product sourcing in China aligns engineering, commercial and regulatory workstreams from day one, ensuring documentation, labelling and traceability are built into the brief. Use the following checklist to keep projects efficient, lawful and ready for CE marking.

What to verify before production and shipment

Start by classifying the device and mapping applicable legislation: Low Voltage and EMC for most mains-powered goods, plus Radio Equipment where relevant, alongside RoHS, REACH and the General Product Safety Regulation. Conduct manufacturing and environmental audits, verify quality systems and capacity, and lock supplier obligations into contracts; this step is foundational to product sourcing in China. Define a test plan (type testing and ongoing conformity) with accredited laboratories, supported by Bill of Materials declarations and Safety Data Sheets. Implement AQL-based inspections at critical milestones, validate labels, user instructions, WEEE symbols and packaging durability, and confirm serialisation for traceability. For businesses that import goods from China, build a complete technical file (risk assessment, DoC, test reports, drawings and change logs) and align Incoterms, insurance and post-market surveillance responsibilities before booking freight.

Speak to a specialist for a tailored roadmap

To import goods from China efficiently and legitimately, appoint a partner that can shortlist qualified factories, orchestrate audits, design pragmatic test regimes and keep documentation investor- and regulator-ready. For an independent review of current electronics projects, an optimisation plan for compliance costs, or a step-by-step sourcing strategy, start a conversation with CSP to assess risks, timelines and total landed cost without disrupting existing supplier relationships. If your organisation intends to scale product sourcing in China across multiple SKUs, request a structured playbook and an onboarding session with your technical and procurement teams.