Where Can You Get Information About the Regulations for The Export of Cosmetics?

Cosmetics Regulation in The European Union

The 27 member states of the European Union have incorporated into their national legislation the European Union's Cosmetics Directive, adopted in 1976. In all Member States, there are health authorities that regulate cosmetic products within their respective national borders in accordance with legal requirements. As of July 2013, all cosmetic products sold in the European Union must register their ingredients with a central body. The EU Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety is responsible for analyzing all special and active cosmetic ingredients and for evaluating the conditions for safe use. The results will then be posted on the Committee's website. The EU allows the marketing of cosmetic products with specific medical effects. The cosmetics manufacturer or importer is responsible for demonstrating that the product is safe for its intended use. 

Regulation of Cosmetics in Japan

The Japanese government regulates the cosmetics industry through its Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare in accordance with the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act (Act No. 145) enacted on August 10, 1960. In Japan, there is a list of prohibited ingredients, a list of prohibited ingredients, a positive list for UV filters, and a positive list for preservatives. In addition to these restrictions, the responsibility for ensuring product safety is passed to cosmetics manufacturers. Therefore, any ingredient that is proven to be safe can be used in a cosmetic product. Since 2001, Japanese cosmetics companies only have to specify the brand of the product before manufacturing or importing it. “Japanese consumers are in high demand for cosmetics. Consumers can get a lot of information about cosmetics in women's and fashion magazines, on the Internet, in television commercials, in newspapers, and in other media. As a result, they are very demanding when it comes to choosing their cosmetics. In the cosmetics market, consumers range from low-cost young women to middle-aged and older women looking for products with high functionality and added value. For this reason, foreign cosmetics manufacturers are supposed to have plenty of opportunities to gain a foothold in the Japanese market. The safety of cosmetics in Japan is guaranteed by the Product Liability Act (PL Act). If a defect in a product can be demonstrated to be harmful to people, bodies, or assets, the manufacturer's liability for damage is determined in order to protect victims in accordance with the law. Since importers must take responsibility for damage caused by imported items, it is necessary to carefully observe quality controls, operating instructions, and precautionary measures.” March 2011 (See the full text of this report from the Japan Foreign Trade Organization): 

Cosmetics Ordinance in Canada

The Canadian government regulates the cosmetics industry as part of Health Canada's cosmetics program. The Food and Drug Act and the Cosmetics Regulations form the basis of the supervisory authority of the cosmetics program. Cosmetics are defined as “any substance or mixture of substances manufactured, sold, or offered to clean, improve, or alter the appearance of skin, hair, or teeth, including deodorants and perfumes.” Just like in the U.S. In the US, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring that products comply with legal requirements before they are marketed. The cosmetics manufacturer or importer is responsible for demonstrating that the product is safe for its intended use. Health Canada enforces regulations and oversees them by Product Safety.