The China food and Drug Administration says it is looking to strengthen regulations around cosmetics to ensure that quality and safety standards meet international ones, 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.
If the Council gives the proposed regulations the go ahead, it will be the first time in 25 years for China.
Revisions include widening the 'special use cosmetics' category to cover hair dye, perming products, whitening creams and sun care.
Opinions and suggestions are welcomed from the public until August 20th.
Oral products may be supervised under the same category
China's State Council is also looking at whether it should include oral care products in cosmetics regulations. A move experts say could affect the regulation, circulation and promotion of the sector.
Oral care products are currently under the supervision of the Quality Inspection Department. If they fall under the cosmetics category, they will be subject to stricter regulations by the CFDA.
A source told Shanghai's China Business News that if the ruling goes ahead; toothpaste makers will have to list all of the ingredients and also 'regulate their advertisements to refer only to the basics of cleaning teeth and rely on their quality to win recognition'.
"Just as cosmetics require screening, toothpaste that is marketed as medicinal will have to apply for special screening and some may have to undergo human trials to prove their medical effects," the publication reported.
Legislative office also considers official ban on cosmetics advertisements
China's Legislative Affairs Office recently published a draft document where it stated it is considering an official ban on any cosmetics advertisements with 'exaggerated claims'.
The document outlines that advertisements should be genuine and legitimate, with scientific evidence and research data clearly published on the CFDA's website to back up claims.
Any company found to be making exaggerated or false claims will be suspended from selling their products in China.
If a beauty brand continues to practice in this way, it will, according to the Authority, be fined up to 50,000 yuan as well as having its' products confiscated.