Core Viewpoint - China will completely ban the production of mercury thermometers and blood pressure monitors starting January 1, 2026, marking the end of mercury thermometers in the market [1][2]. Group 1: Regulatory Framework - The ban is in accordance with the Minamata Convention on Mercury, which took effect in China on August 16, 2017, and mandates the prohibition of mercury-containing thermometers and blood pressure monitors by 2026 [1]. - The National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) issued a notification in October 2020 to implement the ban, stating that existing medical device registration certificates for mercury thermometers and blood pressure monitors will remain valid until December 31, 2025 [1]. Group 2: Health and Environmental Concerns - Experts highlight the toxicity and non-degradability of mercury, which poses significant health risks and environmental hazards, outweighing the convenience of traditional thermometers [2]. - A standard mercury thermometer contains about 1 to 2 grams of mercury, which can rapidly vaporize and exceed safe concentration levels in indoor environments if broken, leading to potential neurological and renal damage, especially in sensitive populations like children and pregnant women [2]. - Mercury accumulates in the environment and can be converted into more toxic methylmercury, which bioaccumulates in the food chain, posing long-term threats to ecosystems and human health [2]. Group 3: Alternatives and Consumer Preferences - Current popular alternatives to mercury thermometers include electronic thermometers, ear thermometers, and forehead thermometers, which are considered safer and more user-friendly [2]. - Electronic thermometers are noted for their high accuracy when used correctly and are increasingly favored by consumers due to their clear digital display and ease of use [2]. - Electronic blood pressure monitors are also gaining popularity for their simplicity and portability, making them suitable for a wide range of users [2].

Core Viewpoint - The production of mercury thermometers and blood pressure monitors will be banned in China starting January 1, 2026, in compliance with the Minamata Convention on Mercury and related regulations [1][2][9]. Regulatory Changes - The National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has announced that from January 1, 2026, the production of mercury-containing thermometers and blood pressure monitors will be completely prohibited [2][9]. - Existing medical device registration certificates for mercury thermometers and blood pressure monitors will remain valid until their expiration, but renewal applications must be submitted before December 31, 2025 [2][8]. Market Impact - Despite the upcoming ban, mercury thermometers are still available in pharmacies, with prices ranging from 10 to 11 yuan [3][11]. - Sales of mercury thermometers have decreased, and pharmacies are considering replacing them with other temperature measurement tools, such as infrared thermometers [3][11]. Industry Trends - Medical professionals indicate that the withdrawal of mercury thermometers from the market is a natural progression due to safety concerns and the convenience of electronic thermometers [4][12]. - Electronic thermometers and infrared thermometers are becoming more prevalent, with advantages in speed and accuracy compared to mercury thermometers [4][12].

Core Viewpoint - The National People's Congress Standing Committee has approved the amendments to Annex A and Annex B of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, as decided during the fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties held in Geneva on November 3, 2023 [1] Group 1 - The decision was made during the 18th meeting of the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee on October 28, 2025 [1] - The amendments pertain to the Minamata Convention on Mercury, which addresses global mercury pollution [1]

Core Viewpoint - The National People's Congress Standing Committee approved the amendments to Annex A and Annex B of the Minamata Convention on Mercury, as decided at the fifth meeting of the Conference of the Parties held in Geneva on November 3, 2023 [1] Group 1 - The decision was made during the 18th meeting of the 14th National People's Congress Standing Committee on October 28, 2025 [1]