The Civil Aviation Administration of China has announced a ban on power banks lacking valid 3C certification, those with unclear 3C labels, and those subject to product recalls.

The China Compulsory Certification, or 3C, is a mandatory safety and quality standard required for certain products to ensure consumer protection and environmental compliance.

In 2023, China officially included power banks and lithium-ion batteries, the key components of power banks, in the list of products requiring 3C certification.

Here is a simple three-step guide to help you check whether your power bank complies.

 

Step 1: Identify the 3C mark

Choose products with a clear 3C label. Prioritize units manufactured after August 2024, which is the deadline when all power banks produced were required to comply with 3C requirements.

Step 2: Check the validity

You may verify the authenticity of the 3C label on the official website of the China Quality Certification Center.

Step 3: Capacity check

Under current regulations, power banks with a capacity of up to 100 watt-hours are allowed in the cabin. Those between 100Wh and 160Wh require approval. Anything above 160Wh is not permitted on board.

Also remember that lithium batteries must remain with you in your carry-on at all times. Even certified power banks must be switched off during the flight and should not be used to charge electronic devices to prevent fire.

 

Sources: CCTV, China Daily