FCC considers ban on Chinese labs testing US electronics

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is preparing to vote on a proposal that could ban Chinese laboratories from testing electronic devices intended for the US market. Under current regulations, electronic devices must be tested by an approved lab before being marketed in the United States. FCC data indicates that 82% of devices authorized for sale in the US in 2025 were initially tested in China.

If the proposal passes, the ban would apply to countries that do not offer reciprocal treatment to US-based laboratories. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that less than 4% of electronic devices are currently tested in US labs, and characterized the move as an effort to ensure fair treatment in international commerce. While over 60 countries and territories—including Japan, Taiwan, and Vietnam—are classified as reciprocal economies, mainland China is not.

The commission's vote is scheduled for October 29. If approved, the new rules would take effect on December 1, 2028, providing manufacturers a two-year window to relocate operations. China's commerce ministry has criticized the proposal, stating it would “seriously undermine the international economic and trade order” and has promised to take necessary measures to protect Chinese enterprises.