Special Cosmetics may only be produced or imported after registration with the medical products administration department under the State Council. Imported General Cosmetics must be filed (notified) with the medical products administration department under the State Council prior to importation.
Regulations on Data Submission
When applying for the registration of imported special cosmetics or the notification of imported general cosmetics, applicants must simultaneously submit documents proving that the product is already marketed and sold in the country (region) of origin, as well as documentation proving that the overseas manufacturer complies with Cosmetic Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). If a product is manufactured specifically for export to China and a certificate of sale from the country of origin cannot be provided, research and test data conducted specifically for Chinese consumers must be submitted instead.
Regulations on Chinese Labeling
Imported cosmetics may either use an original Chinese label or have a Chinese label affixed (over-labeled). If a Chinese label is affixed, its content must be consistent with the content of the original label.
Regulations on Entry into Customs
Entry-exit inspection and quarantine authorities shall inspect imported cosmetics in accordance with the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Import and Export Commodity Inspection; products that fail the inspection shall not be imported.
Importers are responsible for auditing whether the cosmetics to be imported have been duly registered or filed, and whether they comply with these regulations, mandatory national standards, and technical specifications. If the audit fails, the products shall not be imported. Importers must truthfully record information regarding imported cosmetics, and the retention period for these records must comply with the relevant legal requirements. For imported cosmetics that cause bodily harm or have evidence proving a potential hazard to human health, the national entry-exit inspection and quarantine department may suspend their importation.
