A new regulation from Shenzhen authorities, effective July 2, 2025, now prohibits the sale of non-certified power banks in Huaqiangbei, one of the world’s largest electronics markets, tightening product safety.

Vendors in Huaqiangbei confirmed the immediate effect of the ban, stating that only 3C-certified power banks are now available. This follows earlier warnings and fines issued to some vendors for selling non-compliant devices.

The stricter enforcement is directly linked to growing safety concerns surrounding power banks. Recent incidents, including multiple reports of lithium-ion batteries overheating or catching fire on flights, have prompted a nationwide crackdown.

In a related action, the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) issued a directive on June 26, banning power banks without 3C certification, unclear labels, or those that have been recalled from being carried on domestic flights as of June 28.

Industry experts indicate that these new regulations reflect a shift toward increased safety and regulatory oversight in the competitive power bank market.

🔗 Source: Yicai

🧠 Food for thought

1️⃣ A global wave of power bank regulation reflects mounting safety concerns

China’s 3C certification enforcement for power banks is part of a broader international regulatory trend in response to documented safety incidents.

Between 2018 and 2021, Singapore alone recorded 38 fires caused by power banks, demonstrating the real-world risks that have prompted stricter oversight1.

This trend extends beyond China, with the US Transportation Security Administration mandating that power banks containing lithium-ion batteries must only be packed in carry-on luggage due to fire hazards2.

The introduction of dedicated safety standards like UL 2056 in 2015 marked an important milestone in addressing safety gaps in the power bank industry globally, showing that regulatory concerns predate China’s current enforcement actions3.

These developments across different countries suggest a growing global consensus about the need for stronger safety standards in the portable power sector.

2️⃣ Power bank market transformation driven by regulatory pressure

The $13.49 billion global power bank market (projected to reach $22.78 billion by 2030) now faces a significant transition as regulations reshape competitive dynamics4.

With over 17,000 power bank-related companies in China—9.2% involved in legal disputes and 2.4% facing administrative penalties—the industry has been characterized by intense competition that prioritized features and price over safety standards.