China Launches Consultation on 5 Veterinary Equipment Standards & New Barcode Rules

On May 25, 2026, the China Veterinary Drug Information Network released the draft announcement "Five Agricultural Industry Standards, Including the Barcode Identification Code for Livestock and Veterinary Equipment Products" for public consultation through July 31, 2026.

The proposal introduces a new product identification framework alongside updates to several technical standards for livestock and veterinary equipment. If adopted, the standards would establish a common framework for product coding, manufacturing, testing, regulatory oversight, and lifecycle management across the sector, affecting both domestic manufacturers and overseas suppliers to the Chinese market.

New Barcode Standard Introduces a Unified Product Identification Framework

The most significant development among the five draft standards is the proposed “Barcode Identification Code for Livestock and Veterinary Equipment Products.”

The draft introduces a standardized 37-digit coding structure for livestock and veterinary equipment, creating a unified system for product identification and traceability throughout the supply chain.

To support implementation, the standard recognizes three approved barcode formats:

• Code 128
• Data Matrix
• QR Code

These requirements would establish a consistent approach to product coding across manufacturing, distribution, regulatory supervision, and lifecycle management.

Draft Standards Update Technical Requirements for Veterinary Equipment

In addition to the new barcode framework, the consultation includes revisions to several existing agricultural industry standards covering livestock and veterinary equipment.

One notable update is the revised Veterinary Artificial Insemination Gun standard. The draft would:

• Remove existing surface roughness requirements
• Introduce corrosion resistance requirements
• Add product structure definitions
• Reference general tolerance requirements
• Update testing methods
• Revise packaging requirements

These changes modernize the technical specification and provide updated requirements for product design, manufacturing, testing, and quality evaluation.

What the Standards Mean for Overseas Manufacturers

Although the standards are still under consultation, overseas manufacturers supplying livestock and veterinary equipment to China should begin evaluating their potential impact now.

Particular attention should be given to areas that could be affected by the new barcode requirements and updated technical standards, including:

• Product coding and identification systems
• Traceability processes
• Product specifications and technical documentation
• Testing procedures
• Manufacturing controls
• Packaging requirements
• Quality management systems

An early gap assessment can help organizations identify potential compliance challenges and prepare for implementation. Companies expecting significant operational impacts may also wish to participate in the consultation process by submitting comments before the July 31, 2026 deadline.

Final Thoughts

While the package includes several technical revisions, the proposed barcode identification standard is the most significant development, establishing a unified framework for product identification and traceability across the sector.

For overseas companies, the consultation period provides an opportunity to assess readiness, identify implementation challenges, and align internal systems ahead of implementation. Organizations that begin preparations early will be better positioned to adapt once the standards are adopted.

For support preparing and submitting consultation feedback, or for regulatory, compliance, and market access assistance for veterinary drugs and products in China, contact Cisema.

Further Information

• Explore Cisema's services for veterinary product registration and regulatory affairs,

References

• Five agricultural industry standards, including the "Code for Barcode Identification of Livestock and Veterinary Equipment Products." (Draft for comments)