Compliance Testing Advocated for Reform in FCC’s New Proposed Rule to Ban Risky Chinese Test Labs

On April 30, 2025, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced it will vote on May 22 to finalize a rule that would bar Chinese testing labs—specifically those under the control of companies deemed national security risks—from certifying electronics for use in the U.S.

Reuters: FCC to vote to bar Chinese labs deemed security risks from testing US electronics

This proposed rule comes as the FCC looks to close security loopholes in its equipment authorization program. Currently, about 75% of all electronics are tested in China, including potentially by labs with ties to firms on the FCC’s “Covered List,” such as Huawei and ZTE.

Compliance Testing LLC has long advocated for stronger protections and a level playing field for U.S.-based labs. Earlier this year, Compliance Testing LLC CEO Michael Schafer sent a letter to the FCC and key government officials urging action to prevent Chinese labs, operating under restrictive and asymmetrical rules, from continuing to dominate the compliance testing industry for electronic devices.

“This is about fairness, safety, and restoring opportunity for American labs and workers,” Schafer said. “We’re pleased to see the FCC moving in this direction and encourage final adoption of these rules.”

The FCC is also seeking public input on a broader proposal to expand the ban to all labs in China and other foreign adversaries, and to explore incentives for domestic lab development.

Download PDF of Compliance Testing LLC CEO Michael Schafer’s Letter

Read Two FCC Proposed Rules

Click on the links to view the official FCC Documents

1. ET Docket No. 24-136: “Promoting the Integrity and Security of Telecommunications Certification Bodies, Measurement Facilities, and the Equipment Authorization Program”

2. GN Docket No. 25-166: “Protecting our Communications Networks by Promoting Transparency Regarding Foreign Adversary Control

About these Proposed Rules

• The documents (GN Docket No. 25-166 and ET Docket No. 24-136) are currently in the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) stage.
• These draft proposals will be considered at the FCC’s May 22, 2025 open meeting, where the Commission will vote on whether to adopt them for publication in the Federal Register.

Please Make A Public Comment to the FCC Commission Here:

We’re encouraging all U.S.-based engineers to read the proposed rules and leave a public comment supporting the proposals before May 22, 2025

Leave a public comment for the FCC commissioners to review by clicking the buttons below.