Hong Kong’s Environmental Protection Department (EPD) is reinforcing its commitment to cleaner air by maintaining strict controls on volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in consumer and industrial products.
What Are VOCs and Why Do They Matter?
VOCs are chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature, contributing to smog formation and posing health risks. Common sources include paints, adhesives, cleaning agents, and personal care products.
Regulatory Framework
The EPD first introduced the Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation in 2007, targeting products such as architectural paints, printing inks, adhesives, and aerosol sprays. Over the years, the scope has expanded:
- 2009 & 2017 Updates: Broadened coverage and tightened limits.
- 2023 Extension: VOC limits now apply to cleaning products, following a public consultation under the Clean Air Plan for Hong Kong 2035.
Recent Developments
In October 2025, the EPD issued updated guidance to ensure compliance across different products and industries. Enforcement remains active, with routine prosecutions under the Air Pollution Control Ordinance.
What This Means for Businesses
Manufacturers, importers, and retailers must ensure products meet VOC standards before sale or distribution. Non-compliance can lead to fines and legal action. Companies should review product formulations and supply chains to avoid penalties. With the Clean Air Plan’s targets in sight, continued tightening of VOC controls and broader coverage in the coming years is expected.
How can SGS help?
At SGS, our experts can provide assistance on volatile organic compounds (VOC) testing for emissions, aromatic compounds, and aromatic hydrocarbons in products.
| TEST ITEM | REGULATION | TEST METHOD | SCOPE | PROMOTIONAL OFFER |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Determination of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) content | Hong Kong Air Pollution Control (Volatile Organic Compounds) Regulation Chapter 311W | With reference to California Air Resources Board (CARB) Method 310 | Consumer products, including:
|
HKD 5,000 |
| With reference to U.S. Environment Protection Agency method 24 | Product types, including:
|
HKD 3,500 |
To purchase our VOC services, feel free to contact our Sales representative, or you may visit our online platform, TICMall.
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About SGS
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