Shanghai issues pilot plan for importing used auto components for R&D and testing

Shanghai issued a pilot plan on Aug 24 for importing used key components for automotive research, development and testing.

The plan aims to strengthen automotive companies' independent R&D capabilities and the international competitiveness of their products.

During the two-year pilot period, Shanghai will roll out a list of approved enterprises and products to ensure safe and compliant imports. The list will generally be updated every six months.

Eligible enterprises must apply to the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce for inclusion in the pilot list. Following recognition, the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, Shanghai Municipal Commission of Science and Technology, Shanghai Municipal Commission of Economy and Informatization, Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Ecology and Environment, and Shanghai Customs will jointly issue a document confirming and publishing the pilot list.

Eligible applicants must be legally registered automakers or auto parts manufacturers with factories in Shanghai. They must have a scale of operations commensurate with their R&D and testing activities, appropriate R&D and testing capabilities and experience, a management system or information system that enables full-process traceability of pilot products through import, use, and disposal, and a good credit record.

To identify problems, improve technology, and enhance the international competitiveness of their products, enterprises may apply to import used key components that are produced or assembled by the enterprise itself and returned to the factory after export for R&D and testing. Product types and specifications will be determined based on actual business needs. Imports of each specification or model are limited to 80 units per year, while each enterprise may import no more than 800 units annually across all approved specifications and models.

Enterprises must establish internal controls, designate personnel to manage imports, and maintain usage records. The components may be used only for R&D and testing and may not be sold, donated, exchanged, or otherwise transferred or repurposed. They must be managed in accordance with applicable requirements and destroyed in an environmentally sound manner.

Violations will result in the revocation of pilot status and a ban on reapplying during the pilot period. Cases involving suspected illegal or criminal conduct will be referred to judicial authorities.

The plan is valid for two years from the date of publication.

Source: Shanghai Municipal People's Government