Chinese regulators have announced restrictions on the sale and use of certain wireless chargers, a move reported by the South China Morning Post. The new rules will take effect on September 1 and apply specifically to wireless charging devices used in aviation settings that operate on frequencies capable of causing interference. The announcement came from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, clarifying the scope and intent of the ban.
Starting this autumn, consumer and workplace wireless charging stations will be allowed to operate only within three approved frequency bands: 100 to 148.5 kilohertz, 6765 to 6795 kilohertz, and 13553 to 13567 kilohertz. Journalists at the South China Morning Post point out that the restriction will predominantly impact Apple MagSafe charging pads for iPhone, which typically operate at a frequency of 360 kilohertz, a setting outside the permitted ranges. This discrepancy highlights how regulators are focusing on eliminating potential cross‑signal interference with other critical systems and devices.
In addition to frequency controls, the new rules cap the maximum output power of consumer charging stations at 80 watts. Any chargers that do not comply with these limits will be blocked at the point of import, effectively stopping nonconforming products from entering the market. The combination of frequency restrictions and power caps aims to reduce the risk of electromagnetic interference across various sectors and ensure safer operation of wireless charging technology within the national grid and consumer electronics ecosystem.
The policy shift may have broader implications for manufacturers and retailers in China and for international teams that rely on the Chinese market for distribution. Businesses should review their wireless charging product lines to verify compliance with the specified frequency bands and power thresholds. It is important to note that enforcement will focus on products imported for sale within the country as well as items already in distribution channels. Vendors should anticipate updates in testing and certification procedures as authorities align technical specifications with safety standards and aviation sector protections.
For buyers in Canada and the United States, the developments underscore the importance of understanding regional charging standards and the varied regulatory environments that govern wireless power transfer. While the new Chinese measures are not a direct mandate in North America, the global supply chain means a shift in production, certification, and inventory management could ripple across markets. Consumers should stay informed about the latest safety and compatibility notes from reputable sources and manufacturers. Independent testing and certification can help confirm that a charger meets local regulatory requirements before it is purchased or used in devices that rely on wireless energy delivery.
Industry observers emphasize that this evolution in policy reflects a growing emphasis on electromagnetic compatibility and consumer safety. As more devices embrace wireless charging, regulators are likely to push for harmonized safety standards while maintaining the flexibility to prohibit or restrict equipment that poses interference risks. The broader takeaway for users is clear: when selecting a wireless charger, check that the model complies with local regulations, supports the appropriate frequency bands, and delivers power within safe limits. This approach helps ensure reliable charging performance and minimizes the chance of device or network disruption in daily use.
Overall, the September 1 implementation marks a notable tightening of the rules governing wireless charging devices in China. The policy illustrates how regulators balance the convenience of wireless power with the need to protect aviation systems, communications networks, and consumer electronics from unintended interference. For companies operating in North America, the event serves as a reminder to monitor global regulatory shifts and to prepare for potential adjustments in product design, certification, and supply chain planning that could affect availability and compliance requirements abroad.