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Q European regulations on importing refrigerant gas

A In Europe, regulations and standards related to the safe use and handling of R134a refrigerant gas are found in different regulations and standards. Some of these regulations and standards are:

1.The EU F-Gas Regulation, which is a regulation on the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases (HFCs) in the European Union. The regulation requires the use of low-GWP HFCs instead of high-GWP HFCs, including R134a refrigerant gas.

2.The Pressure Equipment Directive (PED), which is a directive on the safety of pressure equipment, including cylinder heads and cylinders for R134a refrigerant gas. The directive requires the use of CE-marked pressure equipment for R134a refrigerant gas.

3.The ATEX Directive, which is a directive on equipment and protective systems for use in explosive atmospheres. The directive requires the use of explosion-proof equipment for R134a refrigerant gas to prevent the occurrence of explosions or ignition in the cylinder.

4.The Machinery Directive, which is a directive on the safety of machines and equipment. The directive requires the use of CE-marked equipment for R134a refrigerant gas to ensure its safety performance.

5.The EN 600 series standards, which are European standards on low-pressure equipment for compressed gases, including R134a refrigerant gas. EN 600 standards specify requirements for low-pressure cylinder equipment for R134a refrigerant gas.

6.The European Refrigerants Directive (ERD), which is a directive on the safety of refrigerants, including R134a refrigerant gas. ERD requires that refrigerants used in Europe must comply with ERD requirements to ensure their safety performance and environmental friendliness.
Q How Does The Montreal Agreement Come To Effect?

A In the early 30s of the 20th century, the use of hydrochlorofluoroalkanes (CFCs) as refrigerants marked the beginning of the application of organofluorine chemicals.
After 1945, various defense programs in the Cold War provided an enduring driving force for the continuous development of fluorine chemistry and the use of fluorinated compounds, and the refrigerant industry dominated by CFCs developed rapidly around the world.
Until 1974, when Molina and other scholars put forward the argument that chlorine fluorine would cause damage to the ozone layer, and then in 1985 The British Antarctic Survey discovered the phenomenon of the ozone layer hole over Antarctica, which has aroused widespread international attention: studies have shown that fluoroalkanes have strong chemical stability, and they are difficult to be decomposed or degraded in the lower atmosphere, and will stay in the atmosphere for more than ten years, directly causing problems such as ozone layer destruction and air pollution, and seriously affecting the ecological environment. Nearly half a century elapsed between the introduction of CFCs and the recognition of the environmental hazards of CFC releases.

In 1987, the global organofluorine industry made a major repositioning: representatives of 28 countries jointly resolved and formulated the Montreal Protocol, an international convention, which stipulates that the production and sales of all generations of fluorohydrocarbons will be gradually restricted, reduced and discontinued, and the global fluorine refrigerants will be gradually upgraded. The Montreal Protocol was signed in 1987 and entered into force in 1989.

On 15 October 2016, in Kigali, Rwanda, nearly 200 countries at the 28th Conference of the Parties to the Montreal Agreement agreed on the reduction of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming, and signed the Kigali Amendment. The Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol requires most developed countries to reduce HFCs starting in 2019, developing countries to freeze HFCs consumption levels in 2024, and a small number of countries to freeze HFCs consumption in 2028. On 17 June 2021, the Permanent Mission of the People's Republic of China to the United Nations deposited with the Secretary-General of the United Nations its instrument of acceptance of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol. The amendment came into force for China on 15 September 2021 (not applicable to Hong Kong SAR of China for the time being). The Chinese Government attaches great importance to the implementation of the Ozone Layer Protection, and has carried out solid implementation and governance actions, which have achieved positive results.
Q History development of quantity regulations on refrigerant production

A
Refrigerant production constraints have been in place globally for nearly 40 years. The first policy in the world to control refrigerant production was the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer promulgated in 1985, which for the first time pointed out the depletion hazards of CFCs to the ozone layer and was an important legal basis for global action to protect the ozone layer. The real policy of quantitative restraint of refrigerants is the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1987, and a series of subsequent amendments that have gradually improved the number of restricted varieties and the timing of bans.

Quantitative constraints on first-generation refrigerant production: The Montreal Protocol of 1987 called for a freeze on the production of CFCs in 1986 and a 50% reduction in manufacturing in developed countries in 1988 and a complete ban on halon extinguishing agents (containing bromine and chlorohalides) since 1994. The Copenhagen Amendment of 1992 set 1996 for CFCs, CTCs and TCAs in developed countries and 1994 for halons.

Quantitative constraints on second-generation refrigerant production: The 1990 London Amendment added 4 groups of HCFC controlled substances for a total of 34 HCFC controlled substances. The 1999 Beijing Amendment first controlled the production of HCFCs, and developed countries will stop using HCFCs in 2020 and developing countries will demand that they stop using HCFCs by 2030. The 2007 Montreal Amendment revised the ban schedule for developing countries, bringing forward the freeze year by three years and the final phase-out from 2040 to 2030.

Quantitative constraints on third-generation refrigerant production: The 2016 Kigali Amendment formally placed 18 HFCs on the controlled list and required developed countries to reduce HFCs by 85% by 2036 and developing countries by 80% by 2045.

In addition, in addition to the Montreal Protocol and a series of amendments, the EU has also promulgated a series of binding policies from the application side.
In 2006, the European Commission issued the first regulation for F-gases (2006/40/EC), stating that
1. as of January 1, 2011, all new air conditioners sold in the EU must use a refrigerant GWP value of less than 150.
2. As of January 1, 2017, all new factory vehicles must use a refrigerant with a GWP of 150 or less.

In 2014, the European Union issued a new version of the F-gas regulation (2014/517/EC), which clearly states that
1.from January 1, 2020, commercial refrigeration will prohibit the use of refrigerants with a GWP higher than 2500;
2. As of January 1, 2025, unit air conditioners will ban the use of refrigerants with a GWP higher than 750.

China joined the Vienna Convention for the Protection of the Ozone Layer in 1989, the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer in 1991, and announced its acceptance of the Montreal Protocol (Kigali Amendment) in 2021, gradually joining the constraints on refrigerant production. In addition to the implementation of the prescribed time course, China has added some policies, promulgating regulations in 2009 and 2021 respectively to prohibit the construction and expansion of second- and third-generation refrigerants.
Q Quota policy of 3G refrigerant production in China

A The third-generation refrigerant quota policy was officially implemented.

In accordance with the relevant provisions of the Kigali Amendment, the baseline value of HFCs production and use in China,

In tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2), they are the baseline years (2020-2022).

Average production and average use of HFCs in China, plus hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs), respectively

Production and use of 65% of the baseline value. Based on this, the baseline value of HFCs production in China was determined to be 1.853

billion tCO2, HFCs consumption baseline value of 905 million tCO2 including import baseline value 5 million tCO2).
Q Importing R22 from China to Algeria Process

A
**Importing a 20ft Container of Refrigerant Gas R22 (Freon) from China to Algeria**

Importing a 20ft container of refrigerant gas R22 (Freon) from China to Algeria involves specific documentation and procedures due to environmental regulations and import restrictions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Required Documents for Importing R22 to Algeria

Since R22 is an ozone-depleting substance (ODS), its import is regulated under the Montreal Protocol and Algerian environmental laws. You will need:

A. From the Supplier (China)

1. Commercial Invoice (detailing product, quantity, unit price, total value, HS code)

2. Packing List (weight, dimensions, packaging type)

3. Bill of Lading (B/L) or Sea Waybill (for sea freight)

4. Certificate of Origin (usually issued by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce)

5. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for hazardous chemicals

6. Fumigation Certificate (if wooden packaging is used)

7. Manufacturer’s Test Report / Quality Certificate (for refrigerant purity)

B. For Algerian Customs & Regulatory Compliance

8. Import License (from the Algerian Ministry of Trade)

9. Prior Authorization from AND (Agence Nationale des Déchets) – Required for ozone-depleting substances (ODS)

10. Customs Declaration (Déclaration en Douane) – Filed by a licensed customs broker

11. Technical Approval from the Ministry of Energy & Mines (for refrigerant gases)

12. Certificate of Conformity (CoC) – Must be obtained from an approved inspection agency (e.g., SGS, BV, Intertek) before shipment

13. Tax Identification Number (NIF) and Registre de Commerce (RC) of your company

14. Insurance Certificate (for cargo insurance)

2. Key Steps in the Import Process

Step 1: Verify Import Regulations

- R22 is phased out under the Montreal Protocol, but some limited imports may still be allowed in Algeria for servicing existing equipment.

- Confirm with AND (Agence Nationale des Déchets) and the Ministry of Environment if R22 imports are still permitted.

Step 2: Find a Supplier in China

- Ensure the supplier provides all required documents (MSDS, CoC, etc.).

- Negotiate INCOTERMS (preferably CIF or CFR Algiers) to simplify logistics.

Step 3: Obtain Import License & Approvals

- Apply for an import license from the Algerian Ministry of Trade.

- Get prior authorization from AND for importing ODS (R22).

Step 4: Pre-Shipment Inspection (Certificate of Conformity - CoC)

- Hire an approved inspection agency (SGS, Bureau Veritas, Intertek) to inspect the goods in China before shipment.

- The CoC is mandatory for customs clearance in Algeria.

Step 5: Arrange Shipping & Logistics

- Choose a freight forwarder experienced in hazardous chemical shipments (R22 is classified under UN 1078 as a non-flammable gas).

- Ensure proper DG (Dangerous Goods) declaration for sea freight.

Step 6: Customs Clearance in Algeria

- Hire a licensed customs broker to handle the clearance.

- Submit all documents to Algerian Customs (Douanes Algériennes).

- Pay applicable duties & taxes:

- Customs Duty (varies, typically 5-30%)

- VAT (19%)

- Additional fees (port handling, inspection, etc.)

Step 7: Delivery & Storage

- Once cleared, arrange transport to your warehouse.

- Store R22 in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area (safety regulations apply).

3. Important Notes

- R22 is being phased out globally, so check if Algeria has imposed a ban or quota.

- Consider alternative refrigerants (e.g., R410A, R134A) if R22 is restricted.

- Work with a local customs expert to avoid delays or confiscation.

Would you like assistance in finding a reliable freight forwarder or customs broker in Algeria?
Q China's 2025 Refrigerant Quota Policy Overview

A
China's Refrigerant Production Quota Scheme in 2025: Aligning with the Montreal Protocol and Latest Policies

Introduction

The Montreal Protocol, a landmark international environmental agreement, aims to phase out ozone-depleting substances (ODS) and regulate hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) to mitigate climate change. China, as a key participant, has implemented stringent policies to meet its obligations under the protocol, particularly through its refrigerant production quota system. In 2025, China's latest quota adjustments reflect its commitment to environmental sustainability while balancing industrial growth.

Overview of the Montreal Protocol and Its Amendments

The Montreal Protocol, adopted in 1987, targets the reduction of ODS such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). The Kigali Amendment, adopted in 2016, extends this framework to include HFCs, which, while not ozone-depleting, have high global warming potential (GWP). China ratified the Kigali Amendment in 2021, committing to phasedown HFC production and consumption.

China's 2025 Refrigerant Quota Policy

1. Quota Allocation for HCFCs and HFCs

HCFCs: In 2025, China's HCFC production quota is set at 163,573 tons, a significant reduction from 2024 levels. For example, R22, a widely used HCFC, sees its production quota cut by 18% to 149,100 tons, while its domestic use quota drops by 28% to 80,900 tons.

HFCs: The total HFC production quota for 2025 is 792,000 tons (equivalent to 14.64 billion tCO2). Key HFCs like R32 receive a 45,000-ton increase in domestic production quotas to meet rising demand from industries such as air conditioning and semiconductors.

2. Key Adjustments and Their Implications

HCFC Phaseout: The aggressive reduction in HCFC quotas aligns with China's commitment to phase out these substances by 2030. This has led to supply constraints, particularly in the aftermarket, driving up prices for HCFCs like R22.

HFC Management: While HFC quotas are increasing, they remain tightly controlled to prevent overproduction. The focus is on transitioning to low-GWP alternatives, with HFC-32 and HFC-245fa receiving additional quotas to support this shift.

3. Impact on Industry and Market Dynamics

The quota system has created a seller's market, with leading companies like Juhua Group and Dongyue Group dominating HFC production. This concentration of market power enables these firms to maintain high prices and profitability.

The reduction in HCFC quotas has also spurred innovation, with companies investing in next-generation refrigerants like hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs), which have zero ozone depletion potential and lower GWP.

Challenges and Future Directions

1. Balancing Environmental Goals and Industrial Growth

China faces the dual challenge of meeting its environmental commitments while supporting its growing refrigeration and air conditioning industries. The quota system must strike a delicate balance between these objectives.

2. Transition to Low-GWP Alternatives

The development and adoption of HFOs and other low-GWP refrigerants are critical to achieving long-term sustainability. However, high costs and technical barriers remain significant hurdles.

3. Enforcement and Compliance

Ensuring compliance with the quota system is essential to its success. Strengthening monitoring and enforcement mechanisms will be key to preventing illegal production and trade of controlled substances.

Conclusion

China's 2025 refrigerant production quota scheme represents a critical step in its journey toward environmental sustainability. By aligning with the Montreal Protocol and the Kigali Amendment, China is not only fulfilling its international obligations but also driving innovation and market transformation in the refrigeration industry. As the world moves toward a low-carbon future, China's policies will serve as a model for other developing nations navigating similar challenges.

An Encyclopedia on Refrigerant Gas Knowledge

Classification

Q European regulations on importing refrigerant gas

Q How Does The Montreal Agreement Come To Effect?

Q History development of quantity regulations on refrigerant production

Q Quota policy of 3G refrigerant production in China

Q Importing R22 from China to Algeria Process

Q China's 2025 Refrigerant Quota Policy Overview

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