[Updated] CSAR Subsidiary Regulation: China Implements Administrative Measures on Cosmetics Inspection

Editor's note: This article was originally published on April 30, 2024, and was updated on November 1, 2024, as per the latest developments. The updated contents are marked in red below.

On October 19, 2023, China National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) solicited opinions on Administrative Measures on Cosmetics Inspection (hereinafter referred to as the "Measures"). ¹ On April 29, 2024, NMPA released the finalized Measures and implemented it on November 1, 2024. ²

The Measures represents the first system construction by NMPA aimed at comprehensively standardizing cosmetics inspections since the implementation of the Cosmetic Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR). With 8 chapters and 47 articles, the Measures systematically clarifies the requirements for inspection categories, inspection procedures, link between inspection and audit, and result handling. It aims to address the main problems currently faced in cosmetics inspection work.

Applicable Scope

The Measures applies to the following areas:

Inspection of:

• Registration and notification of cosmetic products and new cosmetic ingredients (NCIs);

• Notification of toothpaste and new toothpaste ingredients;

• Extension inspections conducted by medical products administration departments on suppliers and manufacturers of cosmetic ingredients and primary packaging materials, as required for regulatory purposes;

• Production and operation of toothpaste.

Clarifying Inspection Categories and Inspection Requirements

Cosmetics inspections are categorized into four types as below, based on their nature and purpose.

1. Licensing inspection

2. Routine inspection

3. Cause-based inspection

4. Other inspections

Each type of inspection has specific requirements for the inspection’s initiation, focus, and methods.

Inspection Categories and Focus