China Type Testing Medical Devices & IVDs

Type testing, also called in country testing, is a critical step in the regulatory process for medical devices and IVDs seeking approval in China. When conducted in accordance with national standards set by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), type testing verifies that products meets performance, safety, and quality requirements before they can be legally marketed.

This process ensures that products are safe for patients and comply with China’s stringent regulatory framework. The final testing report is an essential document reviewed by authorities for product approval.

Chinese testing
Accredited testing institutes
Testing methods

IVD & Medical Device Testing

Medical devices and IVDs must be tested at an NMPA accredited laboratory, where the product samples are tested against the applicable GB and YY standards. These tests check a variety of aspects including, but not limited to, electrical safety (especially for electrical medical equipment), biocompatibility, mechanical performance, and electromagnetic compatibility.

The tests depend on the product’s intended use and classification. The specific test report from these tests forms an integral part of the required documents for the registration application with the NMPA, emphasizing the role of the testing report as a critical document in the registration application. This includes demonstrating conformity to the Product Technical Requirements specific to each product type.

It is also important to include certificates of critical components as part of the necessary documentation for ensuring safety and usability.

Regulatory changes in October 2021 allowed for self-testing under certain conditions, however the process remains complex and is primarily only feasible for large domestic manufacturers with the resources to generate to a self testing report in compliance with NMPA guidelines. For an overseas manufacturer, compliance is easier when working a certified NMPA laboratory, especially given language barriers and the evolving nature of China's testing requirements.

Due to these language issues, complex regulations, and stringent testing measures, many manufacturers hire local regulatory experts such as Cisema, who handle and oversee the type testing process for faster and more accurate results.

How Long Does Type Testing Take?

The duration of type testing in China typically ranges from 4 to 6 months under standard conditions. However, if biocompatibility testing is required, the process may extend to up to 9 months. The high demand for testing services can lead to long waiting times for type testing dates.

Several factors can influence the overall timeline, including:

Device complexity

More complex products may require additional tests, increasing the duration.

Scope of testing

The number and type of tests required, based on applicable GB and YY standards, impact the timeframe.

Laboratory workload

The testing laboratory’s current capacity and schedule can affect processing times.

Documentation & sample submission

Delays in submitting required documents or product samples can prolong the process.

Responsiveness to laboratory questions

From a practical perspective, labs often have testing questions about the specific product.

Biocompatibility tests

These are the only test reports the NMPA accepts from non-NMPA-certified laboratories outside China

Our China Type Testing Services for Medical Devices & IVDs

We provide end-to-end support for Class ii and Class iii medical device and IVD type testing in NMPA-accredited laboratories. Local testing institutes play a crucial role in the evaluation of products, and their involvement is essential to ensure thorough and accurate testing processes. To encounter any difficult testing scenarios, we send our experienced test engineers on-site to supervise all testing in China to guarantee accurate and reliable results.

Our services include:

Pre-Testing Consultation

Assessment of product specifications and regulatory requirements
Identification of applicable testing standards and test items
Guidance on sample preparation and documentation requirements
Evaluation if existing biocompatibility test reports according to ISO-10993 comply with the latest requirements of China NMPA e.g. GB/T 16886
Pre-tests to simulate challenging testing scenarios before the actual type testing
Outlining of product components in the documentation required for compliance during product design and testing processes

Coordination with National Medical Products Administration (NMPA)-Accredited Laboratories

Selection of suitable laboratories based on device category and test scope
Scheduling and coordinating all testing activities
Ensuring proper submission of product samples and technical documents
Understanding the importance of the NMPA as the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical devices in China
Addressing the challenges associated with coordinating different testing units that often operate sequentially, leading to potential delays

On-Site Supervision by Test Engineers

Our test engineers are present on-site to oversee the entire testing process. They ensure that all testing details are meticulously addressed during the type testing procedures, facilitating comprehensive evaluations. This includes interactions with reviewers to confirm that all protocols are followed correctly.

Monitoring test procedures to ensure compliance with NMPA protocols
Addressing technical issues and ensuring accurate test execution
Immediate troubleshooting of unexpected testing challenges
Conducting a technical review to ensure compliance with NMPA protocols and address any issues that arise during testing

Test Progress Tracking & Testing Report

Regular updates on testing progress and milestones
Transparent communication of any deviations or additional requirements
Collection and verification of test data and preliminary results

Interpretation of Test Results

Comprehensive review and analysis of test outcomes
Identification of potential non-conformities and recommendations for corrective actions
Clarification of technical terminology and regulatory implications

Documentation & Certification Support

Compilation of final testing reports in compliance with NMPA standards
Assistance with obtaining official test certificates required for product registration
Ensuring proper documentation for future regulatory inspections

Post-Testing Advisory

Guidance on next steps in the NMPA registration process
Recommendations for product modifications if required
Support in addressing test-related inquiries from regulatory authorities

Request a Proposal from Our Life Sciences Team for Type Testing Your Medical Device or IVD in China

Let Cisema help turn your plans into reality.

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