“All cosmetics imported to China for the first time still have to pass [the] CIQ's inspection, it is still mandatory.”
In accordance with the administrative measures on the Inspection, Quarantine and Supervision of Import and Export of Cosmetics(AQSIQ); Order No. 143 the “CIQ will no longer issue labels for imported cosmetics that have passed CIQ's inspections,” as of February this year.
The older version required imported cosmetics to pass the inspection of the AQSIQ while also being affixed with a CIQ label as without it the product was not allowed onto the Chinese market.
April Guo, CIRS spokesperson told CosmeticsDesign.com USA "It is easy to buy fake CIQ labels and put them on imported cosmetics, the goal of using CIQ labels to protect consumers can easily be undermined."
Furthermore Guo mentions that cosmetics like R&D and product samples are exempt from CIQ's inspection, "Due to their limited risk to consumers. However, importers need to submit a declaration to CIQ that the cosmetics will not be used for trade purposes and record the flow of those cosmetics."
Guidelines
Although the aforementioned labels will no longer be required for imported cosmetics, the government body says companies will still need to provide documentation when applying for an inspection on the Chinese market.
Amongst requested paperwork, industry professionals must provide a self-declaration letter stating that the imported cosmetic product complies with relevant Chinese laws and the normal use of the product will not cause any harm to human health, the product’s formula and a hygiene license or record-keeping certificate.
Regulatory issues
Recently the Chemical Inspection and Regulation Service announced it is to host a webinar on the 18th April on the latest updates regarding the China State Food and Drug Administration registration of cosmetics in China.
The independent firm says the event will focus on the latest updates of cosmetic regulations in China and assesses how those changes will impact the registration of cosmetics and cosmetic ingredients.
According to a CIRS spokesperson, manufacturers or distributors involved in exporting finished cosmetics or new cosmetic ingredients to China will benefit from tuning in.
“This webinar will provide you with the necessary briefing on SFDA registration of cosmetics and in-depth intelligence on how these regulatory updates affect your business.”