The Bureau of Standards, Metrology and Inspection (BSMI) of Taiwan has issued a comprehensive revision of the 'Operation Directions Governing Type Approval of Electrical and Electronic Commodities,' effective May 20, 2026. The updated regulation introduces detailed definitions for product categories such as large, complex, and small-quantity items, and specifies the technical documentation required for type approval applications.

Manufacturers and importers must now submit extensive technical files, including Chinese user manuals, color photographs, certificates or reports for critical components, circuit diagrams, and material lists. For products with digital reception or information security functions, additional documentation such as block diagrams, software bills of materials (SBOM), and cybersecurity self-checklists are required.

The regulation allows for on-site testing for large or complex products and supervised testing at foreign laboratories under certain conditions. Post-market controls are strengthened, with random batch sampling and document verification to ensure ongoing compliance. The validity period for type approval certificates is set at three years, and procedures for series approval and re-application are clarified.

Notably, from January 2028, electric vehicle charging equipment, power conversion systems, photovoltaic inverters, and stationary lithium energy storage systems must include information security technical documents in their type approval submissions. These changes aim to enhance product safety, traceability, and regulatory oversight in Taiwan's electrical and electronic sectors.

This regulatory update is classified as High Impact.

Key reasons for High Impact:

• Mandatory and immediate application to all electrical and electronic commodities seeking type approval in Taiwan.
• Introduction of new and more detailed technical documentation requirements, including for information security and digital functions.
• Strengthened post-market controls and random sampling, affecting ongoing compliance and market access.
• Additional requirements for specific product categories (e.g., EV charging equipment, photovoltaic inverters) from January 2028.

Who is affected?

• Manufacturers, importers, and distributors of electrical and electronic products.
• Testing laboratories and certification bodies.
• Stakeholders in the EV, renewable energy, and digital device sectors.

Conclusion:

All stakeholders involved in the approval, importation, and sale of electrical and electronic products in Taiwan must review and update their compliance strategies to meet the new requirements. Failure to comply may result in delays, additional testing, or market access restrictions.