Updates on Cosmetic Regulations in Asia (May)
Updates on Cosmetic Regulations in Asia (May)
Taiwan, China, Publishes Testing Methods for Fragrance and Preservative Ingredients
On April 10, 2025, Taiwan, China, published a "Recommended List of Testing Methods for Specific Fragrance or Flavor Ingredients in Cosmetics," applicable to 15 fragrance or flavor ingredients.
On May 21, Taiwan, China, published "Testing Methods for Preservatives in Cosmetics (6)," applicable to 15 preservative ingredients.
Thailand Introduces New Regulatory Requirements for Cosmetics Containing Titanium Dioxide
On April 21, 2025, the Thai Food and Drug Administration (Thai FDA) announced new regulatory requirements for cosmetics containing powdered titanium dioxide that may pose an inhalation risk.
The new rules apply to cosmetics containing titanium dioxide in powder form with ≥1% particles having an aerodynamic diameter ≤10 micrometers and posing an inhalation risk. Specifically, they include powder/dust/flake cosmetics, pressurized spray products (e.g., aerosols), and non-pressurized spray products.
Manufacturers or importers are required to: identify and confirm the physical form of titanium dioxide used; ensure products comply with all applicable requirements under three ministerial announcements; and retain relevant ingredient information in the Product Information File (PIF) for regulatory inspection.
Indonesia Proposes Revision to Documentation Requirements for Cosmetic Safety, Quality, and Efficacy Assessments
On April 29, 2025, the Indonesian National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM) announced a proposed revision to the documentation requirements for cosmetic safety, quality, and efficacy assessments. The revisions cover general requirements, application submission procedures, assessment timelines, clarify application submission entities and materials, introduce a "fast-track assessment channel," and specify timelines for常规 and fast-track assessment processes.
Thailand Launches e-Certificate System for Health Products (Including Cosmetics)
Effective May 1, 2025, the Thai FDA officially launched an electronic certificate (e-Certificate) system for health products, covering cosmetics, food, medical devices, and other fields.
The electronic certification process continues through the existing e-Submission platform, integrated with electronic signatures (e-Signature) and a dedicated e-Certificate Verification System. To assist companies in adapting to the system changes, the Thai FDA has provided various support materials on its official website, including operation manuals, e-Certificate template examples, and verification guidelines.
Malaysia Implements Electronic Application for Halal Certification
On May 8, 2025, the Malaysian Department of Islamic Development (JAKIM) announced that, effective May 5, 2025, the Malaysian Halal Certification Certificate (SPHM) will be issued electronically (e-Cert). All SPHM applications approved by the Halal Certification Review Committee of JAKIM, State Islamic Religious Councils (MAIN), or State Islamic Religious Affairs Departments (JAIN) will be issued electronically through the MYeHALAL system. Approved companies can print their halal certification certificates online. Physical certificates require an additional fee.
Vietnam Publishes Draft Cosmetic Management Regulation
On May 15, 2025, the Vietnamese Ministry of Health (MoH) published a draft Cosmetic Management Regulation, aiming to modernize cosmetic regulations and strengthen industry oversight. The draft regulation covers cosmetic notifications, production, import and export, PIF documentation, advertising and labeling, quality review, product recalls, and other aspects.