Global Market Access Regulatory Newsletter – Q3 2026

China NDRC and SAMR Issued 2026 Catalogue of Products Subject to China Energy Label

On April 30, 2025, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) released Regulation No. 550 of 2026, introducing the Catalogue of Products Subject to Energy Efficiency Labelling in the People’s Republic of China (2026 Edition) and related implementation rules, which set mandatory China Energy Label (CEL) requirements for 37 categories of energy-using products:

• Household refrigerators
• Electric washing machines and dryers
• Unitary air conditioners
• Self-ballasted fluorescent lamps for general lighting
• High-pressure sodium lamps
• Small and medium three-phase asynchronous motors
• Heat pumps and chillers
• Household instantaneous gas water and gas heating water boiler
• Room air conditioners
• Multi-connected A/C (heat pump) units
• Storage-type electric water heaters
• Household kitchen appliances (induction cookers, electric rice cookers and microwave ovens)
• Displays
• Printers, copiers and fax machines
• Electric fans
• Alternating current contactors/AC contactors
• Positive displacement air compressors
• Power transformers
• Air ventilators
• Flat televisions and digital television receivers (set-top boxes (STBs))
• Household solar water heaters
• Microcomputers
• Range hood and household and similar purpose AC electric ventilating fans
• Heat pump water heaters (heaters)
• Gas cookers
• LED products for indoor lighting
• Projectors
• Permanent magnet synchronous motors
• Air cleaners/air purifiers
• LED luminaires for road and tunnel lighting purposes
• Ducted air conditioners
• Welding machines
• LED flat panel lamps for general lighting
• Commercial induction cookers
• Tower and rack servers
• High-voltage three-phase squirrel-cage asynchronous motors
• Commercial refrigeration equipment (refrigeration vending machines, remote commercial freezers, self-propelled commercial freezers)

The authorities will implement the updated rules in phases starting from June 1, 2026, with each remaining valid for five years. They will allow a grace period of up to two years for products manufactured or imported before the effective dates to enable a smooth transition.

The updated framework gave the different transitional period for the new implementation rules and also repealed the old implementation rules in announcement No. 14 of 2016.

1. The Implementation Rules for Energy Efficiency Labeling of LED Luminaires for Road and Tunnel Lighting and Household Refrigerators
   • Effective on June 1, 2026, and remain valid for five years.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until June 1, 2028.
2. The Implementation Rules for Energy Efficiency Labeling of Projectors
   • Effective on July 1, 2026, and remain valid for five years.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until July 1, 2028.
3. The Implementation Rules for Energy Efficiency Labeling of Household Solar Water Heating Systems
   • Effective on Aug. 1, 2026, and remain valid for five years.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Aug.1, 2028.
4. The Implementation Rules for Energy Efficiency Labeling of Household and Similar Range Hoods and Exhaust Fans
   • Effective on Nov. 1, 2026, and remain valid for five years.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Nov. 1, 2028.
5. The Implementation Rules for Energy Efficiency Labeling of Electric Washing Machines and Wash-Dryer Integrated Machines
   • Effective on April 1, 2027, and remain valid for five years.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until April 1, 2029.
6. The Implementation Rules for Energy Efficiency Labeling of LED Products for Indoor Lighting
   • Effective on Sept. 1, 2027, and remain valid for five years.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Sept.1, 2029.

Meanwhile, for the following regulated categories, since the new implementation rules have come into effect, the manufacturer shall pay attention to the deadline for affixing the label to the product based on the new implementation rules.

1. Self-ballasted fluorescent lamps
   • Effective Feb. 1, 2025.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Feb. 1, 2027.
2. Heat pumps and chillers
   • Effective Feb. 1, 2025.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Feb. 1, 2027.
3. Household kitchen appliances (induction cookers, rice cookers and microwave ovens)
   • Effective Nov. 1, 2025.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Nov. 1, 2027.
4. Display
   • Effective June 1, 2024.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until June 1, 2026.
5. Power transformers
   • Effective Feb. 1, 2025.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Feb. 1, 2027.
6. Microcomputers
   • Effective Feb. 1, 2026.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Feb. 1, 2028.
7. Gas cooking appliances (household gas cooking appliances and commercial gas cooking appliances)
   • Effective March 1, 2026.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until March 1, 2028.
8. Permanent magnet synchronous motors
   • Effective Jan. 1, 2026.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Jan. 1, 2028.
9. Air cleaners
   • Effective Jan.1, 2026.
   • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until January 1, 2028.
10. Tower and rack servers
    • Effective Dec. 1, 2025.
    • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until Dec. 1, 2027.
11. High-voltage three-phase squirrel-cage asynchronous motor (induction motors)
    • Effective April 1, 2026.
    • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until April 1, 2028.
12. Commercial refrigerating appliances (refrigerated vending machines, refrigerated display cabinets with remote condensing unit, commercial refrigerated cabinets with self-contained condensing unit, refrigerated display cabinet with remote condensing unit and self-contained condensing units for commercial freezers)
    • Effective April 1, 2026.
    • The transition period (manufactured or imported from the implementation date) is until April 1, 2028.

There is no change for the other 19 regulated products categories. The application shall comply with the current implementation rules and applicable standards.

Source: https://www.ndrc.gov.cn/xxgk/zcfb/ghxwj/202604/t20260430_1404998.html

Ghana EPA Announces Ban on Polystyrene Foam Products

On May 25, 2026, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of Ghana announced a new policy on the prohibition of importation, production and use of polystyrene (Styrofoam) products.

The ban shall apply to all forms of expanded polystyrene (EPS) foam products used for human activities and commercial purposes, including but not limited to:

• Food packaging containers and takeaway packs
• Disposable cups and plates
• Foam packs used by restaurants, chop bars and food vendors
• Ceiling and insulation materials made from polystyrene foam
• Foam mattresses and bedding materials
• Packaging and cushioning materials
• Any other form of polystyrene foam product intended for human use or consumption-related activities

The ban does not apply to EPS products specifically intended for medical, scientific, laboratory and diagnostic purposes, subject to the applicable regulator.

As a preparative measure, the Authority requires economic operators and stakeholders to transition to safer, reusable, recyclable and environmentally sustainable alternatives.

During the transition period, the Authority will engage stakeholders across the country, promote public awareness and carry out technical consultations, alongside strengthening monitoring, inspections and enforcement readiness.

The ban becomes effective on Jan.1, 2027.

Source: https://www.epa.gov.gh/new/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/PRESS-STATEMENT-EPA-ANNOUNCES-BAN-ON-POLYSTYRENE-FOAM-PRODUCTS-_25-05-2026.pdf

Taiwan BSMI Announces Mandatory Certification Requirements for Nine Product Categories

On June 23, 2026, the Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI) announced new and revised mandatory certification requirements for nine product categories, including EV charging equipment, energy storage products, rechargeable household appliances, etc., to enhance product safety and consumer protection. The measures will take effect on July 1, 2026.

New products that require BSMI certification:

Electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment (up to 30 kW) Power conversion systems (PCS) (up to 20 kW) Stationary lithium energy storage systems (up to 20 kWh) Lithium battery packs for energy storage (greater than 1 kWh and up to 20 kWh) Seven types of rechargeable household appliances, including electric mosquito swatters Interlocking soft foam floor mats

BSMI also:

• Added energy-efficiency requirements for automotive tires
• Revised inspection requirements for Portland cement
• Revised inspection requirements for wood-based panel products
• Strengthened product safety

BSMI stated that the increasing use of EV charging equipment, power conversion systems, energy storage devices and lithium battery products in homes and other settings requires stronger safety oversight. The bureau will inspect these products against nationally adopted standards aligned with international requirements to improve:

• Electrical insulation performance
• Thermal stability
• Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
• Flame-retardant performance

The changes aim to ensure safe electricity use across various consumer applications.

1. Protecting children’s health
   • To reduce potential exposure to chemical substances such as phthalates and formamide, BSMI will include interlocking soft foam floor mats within the mandatory inspection scope.
   • Beginning July 1, 2026, affected products must complete the required inspection procedures and meet applicable requirements before entering the Taiwanese market.
2. Supporting energy efficiency and sustainability
   • To support global carbon-reduction goals and improve vehicle performance, BSMI will add the following energy-efficiency indicators for automotive tires:
     • Rolling resistance
     • Wet grip performance
     • External rolling noise
   • The bureau will also:
     • Introduce chloride-ion testing for Portland cement to ensure that the use of alternative and recycled materials does not affect product stability.
     • Update inspection standards and procedures for wood-based panel products to improve regulatory efficiency.
3. Consumer guidance
   • BSMI stated that it will continue monitoring emerging products and safety risks and will update inspection requirements as needed.
   • The bureau encouraged:
     • Manufacturers and importers to comply with product safety and labeling requirements.
     • Consumers to purchase products bearing the Commodity Inspection Mark.
     • Consumers to use qualified installers designated by manufacturers when installing applicable electrical equipment.

Source: https://www.bsmi.gov.tw/wSite/ct?xItem=127889&ctNode=8321&mp=1 
https://www.bsmi.gov.tw/wSite/public/Data/f1782459430047.png

Mozambique AR Approved Cybersecurity Law

On July 1, 2026, the Assembly of the Republic (AR) of Mozambique published Law No. 13/2026 approving the Cybersecurity Law.

The law enters into force on Sept. 29, 2026, and mandates further implementing regulations within 180 days.

The Cybersecurity Law establishes a national legal framework to help ensure the security of the State, institutions, citizens and protection of information systems and critical infrastructures in cyberspace. It defines governance structures, obligations for public and private entities, and cybersecurity requirements. This finalizes the draft Cybersecurity Law (GMA News ID: 12963).

• National cybersecurity governance
  • Establishes the National Cybersecurity System comprising:
    • National Cybersecurity Council
    • National Cybersecurity Authority
    • National Cybersecurity Incident Response Team (CSIRT)
  • Defines the roles, responsibilities and coordination mechanisms of these bodies.
• Regulated entities
  • Covers:
    • National CSIRT network
    • Critical infrastructure operators
    • Intermediary service providers
    • Essential service operators
    • Digital service providers
    • Digital platform operators
    • Data center operators
    • Cloud computing platform operators
    • Cybersecurity service providers
    • Electronic communications operators
    • Specialized cyber operations units
  • Requires registration with the National Cybersecurity Authority and, for many entities, establishment of institutional CSIRTs.
• Cybersecurity obligations
  • Requires implementation of cybersecurity governance, risk management, technical and organizational security measures, business continuity, data protection and incident response capabilities.
  • Mandates minimum cybersecurity requirements, including information security policies, cyber risk management, internal audits, security officers, employee awareness, backup systems and CSIRTs.
• Network and information system security
  • Establishes requirements for:
    • Network security of data communication systems (integrity, confidentiality and privacy)
    • Protection of the Domain Name System (DNS)
    • Establishment of CSIRTs and coordination for incident response
    • Security and confidentiality of traffic data
    • Storage and identification of traffic and location data
    • Access to information systems and preservation of digital evidence
    • Preservation of data for investigation and legal purposes
    • Identification and localization of IP addresses
    • Data retention obligations for communications
    • Security of information systems and devices
    • Protection of ICT infrastructure
    • Security measures for computer programs
    • Protection and secure management of databases
• Cybersecurity incident notification
  • Defines criteria for significant cybersecurity incidents.
  • Requires mandatory incident notification by covered entities to the National CSIRT and relevant sectoral CSIRTs.
  • Requires monthly incident response and resolution reports.
  • Introduces voluntary incident reporting and responsible vulnerability disclosure.
• Cybersecurity fund
  • Creates a cybersecurity fund managed by the National Cybersecurity Authority.
  • Finances cybersecurity capacity building, training, CSIRT development and national cybersecurity initiatives through government funding, donations and industry contributions.
• Supervision and enforcement
  • Empowers the National Cybersecurity Authority to supervise, inspect and audit compliance.
  • Establishes administrative offenses and financial penalties for noncompliance, including failures related to licensing cybersecurity requirements, incident reporting and regulatory directives.

Source: BR Nº 123 de 01.07.26, Boletim da República - I Serie | Imprensa Nacional de Moçambique 
https://www.incm.gov.mz/?sdm_process_download=1&download_id=5244

Colombia Published Amendments to the Technical Labeling Regulation (RETIQ)

On June 23, 2026, Colombia’s Ministry of Mines and Energy published Resolution No. 40284, amending the Technical Labeling Regulation (RETIQ) for the energy efficiency of household appliances. Key changes affecting existing products are summarized below:

New products were added for the scope:

The products included within the scope of this regulation (electric ovens and televisions) must mandatorily comply with the energy efficiency requirements six months after its entry into force (Dec. 25, 2026). On a transitional basis, compliance with these requirements may be demonstrated via a Producer’s Declaration of Conformity.

Certification schemes and conformity assessment procedures remain the same as the previous regulation.

https://www.minenergia.gov.co/es/misional/energia-electrica-2/reglamentos-tecnicos/

Gibraltar Government Published Data Protection Regulations

On May 14, 2026, the Government of Gibraltar published the Data Protection Regulations 2026 (Legal Notice No. 96 of 2026).

The regulation takes effect on the Implementation Date of the Treaty on Gibraltar and the European Union, which is July 15, 2026.

The document updates Gibraltar’s data protection framework to align with European Union (EU) arrangements under the new treaty. It amends both the Gibraltar General Data Protection Regulation (Gibraltar GDPR) and Data Protection Act 2004.

Source: https://www.gibraltarlaws.gov.gi/legislations/data-protection-regulations-2026-8442