China cosmetics regulatory violation cases were reported by the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) in a recent announcement on November 20, 2023. The cases involve severe violations, such as the illegal addition of banned ingredients, unlicensed production of cosmetics, and the distribution of unregistered special cosmetics. The following cases involve only Chinese companies, however, they highlight the NMPA’s commitment to cracking down on illegal cosmetic activities to ensure safe cosmetic products for consumers.
Businesses are reminded to adhere to regulations, obtain necessary licenses, and ensure the quality and safety of their cosmetic products. These stringent measures aim to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the cosmetic industry in China.
Cases Overview:
- Guangzhou Tianke Cosmetics Co., Ltd. – Unregistered Special Cosmetic Products: In March 2023, Guangdong Provincial Medical Products Administration investigated Guangzhou Tianke Cosmetics Co., Ltd. for producing and selling unregistered special cosmetics, including “Tianke Hair Dye (Natural Black).” The company provided false documentation during the investigation, violating the Cosmetic Supervision and Management Regulations. Consequently, Guangdong Provincial MPA imposed strict administrative penalties on the company and its legal representative.
- Shanghai Jinshan District Zhushaoxia Cosmetics Store – Expired Cosmetic on Sale: In September 2022, Shanghai Jinshan District Market Supervision Administration conducted routine checks on Zhushaoxia Cosmetics Store, revealing the sale of cosmetics past their expiration dates. Given a similar violation in June of the same year, the store and its principal were subjected to severe administrative penalties.
- Qinghai Shujie Hotel Supplies Co., Ltd. – Unlicensed Cosmetic Production: In March 2023, Qinghai Provincial Ping’an District Market Supervision Administration investigated Qinghai Shujie Hotel Supplies Co., Ltd. The company was found producing cosmetics, including “Shampoo,” “Shower Gel,” and “Conditioner,” without obtaining the necessary cosmetic production license. The administration imposed administrative penalties on the company in accordance with relevant regulations.
- Guangzhou Rongda Biotechnology Co., Ltd. – Use of Prohibited Ingredients: In May 2023, Guangzhou Baiyun District Market Supervision Administration investigated Guangzhou Rongda Biotechnology Co., Ltd. The company was found using the prohibited ingredient desonide in the production of “Century Mystery Skincare Conditioning Cream.” The administration imposed administrative penalties on the company in accordance with relevant regulations.
- Tianjin Longtai Yinxin Biotechnology Co., Ltd. – Unlicensed Cosmetic Production: In April 2023, Tianjin Municipal Medical Products Administration investigated Longtai Yinxin Biotechnology Co., Ltd. The company was found producing cosmetics, including “Longtai Sheng Jingyan Tightening Ice Mask Set,” without obtaining the required cosmetic production license. The administration imposed administrative penalties on the company in accordance with relevant regulations.
- Chengdu Zhuo Lanya Business Information Consulting Co., Ltd. – Unregistered Special Cosmetic Production: In May 2022, Sichuan Provincial Chengdu Municipal Market Supervision Administration investigated Chengdu Zhuo Lanya Business Information Consulting Co., Ltd. The company commissioned the production and operation of unregistered special cosmetics, including “Zhuo Lanya Anti-Hair Loss Nourishing Shampoo.” The administration imposed administrative penalties on the company in accordance with relevant regulations.
- Harbin Aisong Biotechnology Co., Ltd. Wumahe Branch – Non-Compliance with Technical Standards: In October 2022, Heilongjiang Provincial Medical Products Administration investigated Harbin Aisong Biotechnology Co., Ltd. Wumahe Branch. The company’s production of cosmetics, such as “Qiancao Plant Scalp Care Hair Mask,” did not comply with the safety technical standards. The administration imposed administrative penalties on the company in accordance with relevant regulations.
Further information
Read the original NMPA report on China cosmetic regulatory violation cases.
Read about the NMPA’s cosmetics sampling inspection measures which came into effect on March 1, 2023
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