China NMPA Proposes Major Reforms to Streamline Cosmetics Registration and Notification

Key reform measures include: 1) Encouraging “First-in-China” product launches; 2) Expanding exemptions for animal testing; 3) Shifting ingredient safety information to company archiving; 4) Enabling data sharing for products with similar formulations; 5) Simplifying dossier requirements for production site changes; 6) Broadening the acceptance of efficacy evaluation methods; 7) Streamlining the process for changing the domestic responsible person.

On March 31, 2026, China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) released the draft Announcement on Matters Concerning Cosmetics Registration and Notification for public consultation. ¹ This draft represents a concrete step toward implementing the Opinions on Deepening the Reform of Cosmetic Administration and Promoting the High-Quality Development of the Industry, issued in November 2025.

The draft introduces significant measures to optimize the registration and notification process, including exemptions for animal testing and certificate of free sale (CFS) requirements, and provisions for data sharing among similar products. If fully implemented, these measures are expected to substantially reduce both the human resource and financial burdens faced by cosmetic manufacturers and brand owners.

The public is invited to provide feedback until April 30, 2026.

Key Changes Outlined in the Draft

The draft announcement details the following key areas of reform aimed at reducing administrative burdens, encouraging innovation, and promoting the high-quality development of the cosmetics industry.

1. Encouraging "First-in-China" Product Launches

To foster a "first-launch economy," new international cosmetic products launching first in China, or simultaneously with other markets, will be exempt from submitting a certificate of free sale (CFS) from the country of origin. Instead, applicants must provide a statement on the innovation of the product's formula and manufacturing process, along with a commitment letter for the first launch in China.

This reform effectively removes the traditional "time lag" associated with market entry, creating a regulatory pathway that supports faster introduction of innovative and trend-driven products. This may significantly enhance China's attractiveness as a launch market.

2. Expanded Exemptions for Animal Testing

The scope of exemptions from submitting toxicological test reports will be broadened. This waiver applies to the following products, provided the manufacturer has obtained relevant qualification certificates for the good manufacturing practice (GMP) of cosmetics issued by the competent government authority of their country (region) and the product safety assessment results can fully confirm the product safety: