China tells automakers to boost safety, quality checks

China's industry ministry has ordered automakers to strengthen safety and quality checks, combat false advertising, and improve assessments of autonomous driving systems, with penalties for violations. The directive follows years of rapid EV expansion and competitive pressure in the Chinese auto market. If you're selling autonomous driving or safety systems to Chinese automakers, expect compliance audits and proof-of-testing to become a gate before any deal closes. The ministry just made safety liability real—customers will now demand certifications you may not yet have.