On 31 March 2026, China published GB 20400-2026 – Safety Technical Specification for Leather and Fur Products, which will enter into force on 1 April 2027 and will fully repeal the previous GB 20400-2006.
The standard defines terms and definitions, product classifications, chemical requirements, test methods and evaluation criteria for the safety of leather and fur products. It applies to all types of leather and fur products and their accessible parts, including recycled leather, which was not covered by the 2006 version.
What Changes Compared to GB 20400-2006
In addition to the already existing restrictions on azo dyes and formaldehyde, new substances are now subject to mandatory limits: hexavalent chromium (Cr VI), short-chain chlorinated paraffins (SCCPs), chlorophenols, phthalates, total heavy metals and dimethyl fumarate (DMFu). The standard also broadens the definition of “infant products”, extending the age range from 24 to 36 months, and introduces specific labelling requirements.
Many of these substances may originate from different stages of the production cycle: tanning, dyeing, finishing, coating, adhesives, plasticisers or the use of recycled materials. Compliance cannot be managed through final product testing alone it requires a structured assessment of materials and suppliers throughout the entire supply chain.
Product Classification
The standard classifies products into three categories based on intended use, with progressively stricter chemical requirements.
| Class | ||
| Products in direct contact with the user’s skin | ||
The sectors most affected are footwear, leather goods, leather and fur garments, glove manufacturing, and the entire fashion and luxury segment with multi-component products. It is worth noting that the standard also applies when leather is not the primary material of the product: the mere presence of accessible parts made of leather, fur or recycled leather is sufficient to fall within its scope.
Timelines and Transitional Period
The standard enters into force on 1 April 2027. Products already manufactured or imported before that date benefit from a grace period of 13 months to achieve full compliance. GB 20400-2006 will be simultaneously repealed.
The transitional period should not be interpreted as an operational postponement. Companies exporting to China should already be taking action now: correctly classifying their products by risk category, verifying regulated substances in the materials used across the supply chain, and building robust technical documentation updated laboratory reports, material datasheets, supplier declarations and acceptance criteria revised in light of the new standard.
Analytical supports brands, manufacturers and importers in verifying compliance with GB 20400-2026 and other applicable GB standards. Laboratory testing, documentary analysis, technical consultancy on leather, fur, footwear and fashion accessories.