The global environmental equipment market size is projected to exceed $320 billion in 2025, with China's import share continuously rising to 37%. Under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) framework, tariffs for wastewater treatment equipment have been reduced to 3.8%, while air pollution control equipment enjoys zero-tariff treatment. However, the accompanying technical trade barriers, particularly the implementation of the new EU CE certification standard (EN 1090-3:2025), have significantly increased the difficulty of import compliance.
Case: A company importing industrial exhaust gas purification systems faced port delays due to incorrect classification by failing to distinguish between complete equipment and components
Solution: Pre-classification advisory + modular declaration by function
Challenge 2: Dynamic Certification Requirements
Key changes in 2025:
EU's new energy efficiency labeling system (effective January 2025)
US NSF certification extended to core components of water treatment equipment
Challenge 3: Special Packaging and Transportation Requirements
Shock resistance level: Precision instruments must meet ISTA 3A standard
Temperature control system: Lithium battery-powered equipment must maintain 15-25℃
Four key control points in customs clearance procedures
Bulk eco-friendly materials: Bulk carrier transportation + port localization modification
Special-sized equipment: Frame box transportation + temporaryimport and exportDeclaration
The Golden Rule of Risk Prevention and Control
Through a case study of importing German water treatment equipment, validating the risk control model:
Pre-inspection identified non-compliance with CE certification version, avoiding RMB 500,000 in return shipment losses
Utilizing the 'Approved Exporter' system under the free trade agreement saved 7 working days
Insuring with 'Product Liability Insurance + All Risks Transportation Insurance' combination covers 95% of risk scenarios
Importing environmental protection equipment is both a technical and systematic project. With the full implementation of the China-EU Investment Agreement in 2025, it is recommended that enterprises establish dual mechanisms: 'Technical Documentation Database + Compliance Early Warning System'. Selecting agents with AEO Advanced Certification qualificationsforeign tradecan reduce hidden costs by 28%, shorten customs clearance cycles by 40%, truly achieving a win-win of environmental and economic benefits.