Abstract
This study explores the application of the precautionary principle in China's chemical management policy, including consideration of risk assessment. The textile industry is analyzed as a case study to examine pollution prevention measures that apply to a particular industrial sector. Analysis is based on available data and interviews conducted over ten weeks in Beijing, in mid-2013, supplemented by follow-up e-mail communication. Findings indicate that elements of both the precautionary principle and risk assessment were present in China's chemical management policy. However, the precautionary principle had not been formally defined in the country's mandatory chemical management policy as of that date. Risk assessment is being developed in issued regulations and academic publications, but its implementation in China remains nascent. For the textile industry, the current policy on the industry's chemical management mainly targets chemical concentrations in the final products.