Key practical points:
• China adopts the metric system as its legal units of measurement.
• Measuring instruments used in sales, health, safety or the environment must be periodically verified.
• Using rigged scales or meters that harm consumers is prohibited.
• Makers and repairers of measuring instruments need licences and conformity certificates.
• Violations (such as short weight) lead to fines and compensation for those harmed.
🏢 Company setup
Metrology Law · Yalla China
中华人民共和国计量法 / Metrology Law
Enacted: 1985-09-06 ✅ Effective: 1986-07-01
📝 Overview
A law governing legal units of measurement and measuring instruments and their calibration in China to ensure accuracy in trade and industry. It requires verification of instruments used in transactions, health and safety.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
If you sell by weight or measure in China, make sure your scales and meters are officially verified. Short weight not only loses customer trust; it is a legal violation carrying fines and compensation. General orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
npc.gov.cn
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026