China issues new national standard for sulphate bamboo pulp

China's State Administration for Market Regulation has approved GB/T 24322-2026, a revised national standard for sulphate bamboo pulp that replaces the 2009 bleached-only version. The update adds a new category and test methods for unbleached (natural) sulphate bamboo pulp, tightens safety limits on fluorescent brighteners and heavy metals, and takes effect on 1 April 2027.

Why this mattersBamboo pulp is a key input for tissue and moulded-pulp fibre packaging, so tighter purity and safety limits could affect sourcing and cost for producers using the material.

• Standard GB/T 24322-2026 replaces GB/T 24322-2009, which covered only bleached sulphate bamboo pulp.
• The revision adds a separate category and technical requirements for unbleached sulphate bamboo pulp.
• New safety indicators cover migratable fluorescent substances and heavy metals.
• Tear index requirements for bleached pulp are tightened and the D65 brightness indicator adjusted.
• Dust measurement threshold area is changed to 0.15mm2 with updated requirements for the 0.15-0.99mm2 range.
• The standard enters into force on 1 April 2027.

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