China Allows the Submission of Copies of Relative Certification Documents for Cosmetic Import amid Coronavirus Outbreak

In China, the necessary documents such as the certificate proving production and sales of the product in the producing country (region) or country (region) of origin (short for "CFS"), and the certificate of Cosmetics Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) shall be submitted during cosmetic import registration/filing ^[1]. Given the current situation and issues caused by the COVID-19 crisis, many overseas cosmetic enterprises are unable to comply with administrative requirements.

On June 16, China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) announced adjustments to the submission requirements of relevant certificates for imported cosmetics registration/filing ^[2]. Specifics of the notice are as follows:

1. When applying for registration or filing, the imported cosmetic enterprise who has difficulty providing the original files of certification documents like CFS, GMP, etc. due to pandemic prevention and control policies in the country or region where the enterprise is located, can submit the corresponding copies. The responsible agent or responsible person shall provide written explanations at the same time, and commit to supplementing the originals after the pandemic. 

2. If it is found that the copies of relevant certificates submitted during registration or filing are fraudulent, it shall be handled pursuant to relevant stipulations of false application. If the corresponding originals are not submitted after the end of the outbreak within the time limit, the renewal of administrative licenses will not be processed, or the product filing will be canceled.