Founded in 1956, China Classification Society (CCS) is the only specialized organization of China to provide classification services. CCS aims to provide services for the shipping, shipbuilding, offshore exploitation and related manufacturing industries and marine insurance by furnishing reasonable and reliable classification requirements and providing independent, impartial and integral classification and statutory services to ships and offshore installations, for the promotion and safeguarding of the safety of life and property at sea and for the prevention of pollution to the marine environment.

Up to the end of 2008, CCS had been authorized by governments of 28 countries or regions to perform statutory surveys for the ships flying their flags. CCS is also the associate members to the International Association of Dry Cargo Shipowners (INTERCARGO) and the International Association of Independent Tankers Owners (INTERTANKO). CCS has established 58 branches/offices both at home and abroad, forming a global service network.By the end of 2008, CCS classed fleet is 2,077 ships totalling 29.07 million gross tonnage.