Proposed changes include classifying oral care products as cosmetics and widening the "special use cosmetics" category to cover hair dye, hair perming products, whitening creams and sun care.
A revised version is said to bring the China Administration closer to EU cosmetics regulations, making it easier for foreign companies to comprehend.
According to CIRS, the regulations will lay down set rules for manufacturers, distributors and importers, prior to them placing their products on the market but will challenge Chinese agents, especially for domestic distributors.
Under the draft, an agent appointed by a foreign company will be responsible for registrations and record keeping, as well as for the authenticity of submitted materials and the quality and safety of cosmetics.
2014: a busy year for updating cosmetic regulations
China’s FDA was quick off the mark back in January as it moved to push a final draft to remove animal testing requirements for non special use cosmetics.
The filing was very efficient and highlights that in comparison to the draft notice, many dates and deadlines have been changed that manufacturers should take note of.
According to CIRS, for many local cosmetic companies that do not have sufficient safety assessment capabilities, this filing means carrying out toxicology tests will be easier to do.
For many foreign cosmetic brands who wish to enter the Chinese market while avoiding animal testing during this approval process, the regulatory body says there may be a way forward for them to achieve both.
The ruling also meant toxicology test reports will no longer be required if companies have the capabilities to conduct their own safety assessment of ingredients to ensure the safety of their finished cosmetic products.