The new mandatory national standard GB 3095-2026, Ambient air quality standards, was jointly released by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment (MEE) and the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR). Two corresponding technical regulations, HJ 633-2026, Technical specifications on ambient air quality index, and HJ 663-2026, Technical specifications for ambient air quality assessment, were released as well.
The newly revised standards impose stricter concentration limits for particulate matter and its primary precursors, tightening the criteria for good air to better safeguard public health.
While China’s economy has developed rapidly, the average annual PM2.5 concentration has dropped from 68 mg/m3 in 2013 to 28 mg/m3 in 2025, making China the fastest country in the world in terms of air quality improvement, according to an official from the Department of Atmospheric Environment at the MEE. The standards for air quality have played a significant role in the battle against air pollution and protecting the health of the people.
The newly released standards will be implemented in a phased manner, to enable a preparatory period for the steady and orderly implementation, and ensure a smooth transition in air quality evaluation.
The standards will effectively drive the development of new quality productive forces, such as clean energy and new energy vehicles, and promote the adoption of advanced production processes in key industries. They will also facilitate the green and low-carbon transition of the industrial, energy, and transportation structures, fostering high-quality economic and social development. It is estimated that various pollutant emission reduction measures could reduce over 7 billion tons of carbon dioxide in 2026-2035.
