China Updates VOC Rules in GB 30981-2025

Published: May 30, 2025
Effective Date: June 1, 2026
Regulation: GB 30981.1-2025 and GB 30981.2-2025

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Summary

On May 30, 2025, China released two new national standards regulating hazardous substances in coatings:

• GB 30981.1-2025: Limits of Harmful Substances in Coatings – Part 1: Architectural Coatings
  
• GB 30981.2-2025: Limits of Harmful Substances in Coatings – Part 2: Industrial Coatings
  

Both standards will take effect on June 1, 2026, replacing the following earlier versions:

• GB 30981.1-2025 replaces GB 18582-2020 and GB 38468-2019
  
• GB 30981.2-2025 replaces GB 30981-2020, GB 18581-2020, GB 24409-2020, GB 24613-2009, and GB 38469-2019
  

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Key Updates

Stricter VOC Limits
The new standard further reduces VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) limits for coatings, including the addition of new VOC requirements for specific types of products. This aims to lower air pollution and improve environmental performance across the industry.

Introduction of SVOC Controls
For the first time, the concept of SVOCs (Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds) is formally included in China’s coatings regulation. Given that SVOCs persist longer in the air and are harder to degrade, their control represents a major step toward protecting human health and the environment.

Expanded Biocide Restrictions
The standard tightens control over biocides used in coatings, promoting a shift toward low-toxicity and non-toxic options. This reduces potential harm to users and ecosystems during product application.

New Limits on Harmful Substances in Additives
Additional indicators for hazardous substances including total benzene series, toluene, and formaldehyde are now applied to auxiliary materials. This highlights China’s commitment to comprehensive chemical safety in coating products.

Tighter Controls on Consumer-Facing Coatings
Coatings intended for direct human contact, such as those used on consumer goods, are now subject to enhanced restrictions on substances like phthalates and heavy metals. These updates enhance the environmental and health safety of finished products across multiple sectors.

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What This Means for Manufacturers

Coatings manufacturers and upstream suppliers operating in China or exporting to the Chinese market should:

• Review existing formulations against the new VOC and SVOC limits
  
• Reassess use of biocides and other additives for compliance
  
• Update material declarations and certification processes
  
• Prepare for audits and regulatory checks ahead of June 2026

Early alignment with GB 30981-2025 will help ensure continued market access and regulatory compliance.