RoHS vs MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
RoHS
EU directive restricting hazardous substances in EEE
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
China's mandatory graded cybersecurity protection framework
Quick Verdict
RoHS restricts hazardous substances in EEE for EU market access, ensuring safe recycling. MLPS 2.0 mandates graded cybersecurity for Chinese networks, protecting national security. Companies adopt RoHS for global trade compliance; MLPS for China operations.
RoHS
Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS 2)
Key Features
- Homogeneous material limits: 0.1% most substances, 0.01% cadmium
- Open scope: all EEE unless explicitly excluded
- Time-limited exemptions via delegated acts (Annex III/IV)
- Requires technical documentation and EU Declaration of Conformity
- Tiered verification: XRF screening to IEC 62321 lab testing
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
Multi-Level Protection Scheme 2.0
Key Features
- Five-level impact-based system classification
- Mandatory registration and PSB approval (Level 2+)
- Graded technical controls for cloud, IoT, ICS
- Third-party audits with 70/100 pass score
- Law enforcement oversight and periodic re-evaluations
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
RoHS Details
What It Is
Directive 2011/65/EU (RoHS 2) is an EU regulation restricting hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). It aims to protect health and environment by limiting substances during waste management, complementing WEEE Directive. Scope covers all EEE unless excluded, with restrictions at homogeneous material level using maximum concentration values (MCVs): 0.1% for most, 0.01% for cadmium.
Key Components
- Ten restricted substances (Pb, Cd, Hg, Cr(VI), PBB, PBDE, four phthalates).
- Annexes III/IV: Time-limited exemptions for specific uses.
- Compliance via technical documentation, EU Declaration of Conformity (DoC), and CE marking.
- IEC 63000 for documentation; IEC 62321 for testing.
Why Organizations Use It
Mandated for EU market access; prevents fines, recalls. Drives supply chain governance, substitution innovation, recyclability. Enhances ESG reputation, level playing field.
Implementation Overview
Risk-based: scope analysis, BoM review, supplier declarations, tiered testing (XRF/ICP-MS), exemption tracking. Applies to manufacturers/importers of EEE globally selling to EU; 6-18 months typical, no central certification but audit-ready files retained 10 years.
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme) Details
What It Is
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme) is China's legally mandated regulatory framework for graded cybersecurity protection of information systems and networks. Enforced under the 2017 Cybersecurity Law (Article 21), it requires operators to classify systems into five levels based on potential harm to national security, social order, and public interests, implementing commensurate technical, governance, and organizational controls.
Key Components
- Core domains: physical security, network protection, data security, access control, monitoring, and governance.
- Standards like GB/T 22239-2019, GB/T 25070-2019 define baselines, extended for cloud, IoT, big data, ICS.
- Built on impact-based classification; Levels 2+ require third-party audits (70/100 score minimum) and PSB approval.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for all mainland China network operators, including foreign firms; non-compliance risks fines, suspensions.
- Enhances resilience, supports market access, aligns with data laws; builds regulator trust.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: scoping, classification, gap analysis, remediation, audits, ongoing re-evaluations.
- Applies universally; higher costs/audits for Levels 3+; suits all sizes in China operations.
Key Differences
| Aspect | RoHS | MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme) |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Hazardous substances in EEE materials | Graded cybersecurity for all networks |
| Industry | EEE manufacturers globally, EU-focused | All network operators in China |
| Nature | EU product restriction directive, mandatory | Chinese cybersecurity regulation, mandatory |
| Testing | XRF screening, IEC 62321 lab tests | Third-party audits, PSB inspections |
| Penalties | Fines, recalls by Member States | Fines, suspensions by PSBs |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about RoHS and MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme)
RoHS FAQ
MLPS 2.0 (Multi-Level Protection Scheme) FAQ
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