China: State Administration for Market Regulation opened consultation on requirements for qualification accreditation review of software inspection and testing institutions

On 17 April 2026, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) opened a consultation on the requirements for qualification accreditation review of software inspection and testing institutions, until 17 May 2026. The requirements apply to software testing institutions that use technical equipment, tools, and controlled environments to conduct software testing activities. It sets out obligations covering personnel qualifications and minimum staffing levels, strict management of testing environments and network isolation, and controls over testing equipment, including calibration, version control, and validation of tools. It also requires institutions to formally verify testing methods, ensure secure handling of test samples, and maintain robust quality management systems and digital information systems covering the full testing lifecycle.