CHINA — China Tightens Rules for New Chemical Substances

China has introduced an important regulatory change affecting companies exporting new chemical substances into the country. From August 15, 2026, China suspended acceptance of the previous “Record Notification” route for certain low-volume and low-risk new chemical substances. Companies dealing with substances not listed on China’s existing chemical inventory may now need to follow the applicable registration requirements before production or import. The change could increase compliance requirements for international chemical suppliers targeting the Chinese market.