Zhejiang CIQ Blocks Spanish Cosmetics

Zhejiang CIQ recently detained and expelled at its Wenzhou administration zone 72,000 Euros worth of cosmetics from Spain, due to incompliance with relevant Chinese standards. This is first time cosmetics were found below Chinese standard at Wenzhou port.

The cosmetics in question were bath cream and shampoo formulated with colorants and preservatives not consistent with relevant Chinese national standards as confirmed by a CIQ testing report.

Imported cosmetics are increasingly popular among Chinese consumers thanks to the drop in tariffs and the thriving E-commerce sector. When it comes to quality issues, the importers are held legally accountable under the current regulatory framework.

Zhejiang CIQ cautions that it is crucial for cosmetic importers to be familiar with related requirements, technical standards and rules before conducting any importation activity. Essentially, it means that for cosmetics imported from abroad, the importer must carry out corresponding risk assessment and apply for registration or record-keeping to CFDA. Taking this case for example, the returned cosmetics are classified as non-special use cosmetics under China law and must be equipped with “CFDA Certificate of Non-special Use Cosmetics” when imported. Meanwhile, all imported cosmetics must remain in the inspection site designated by local CIQ until the importer acquires a so-called “Inspection and Quarantine Certificate for Entry Cargos”. The specific distribution channels must also be recorded by the importer. 

reference: HZ NEWS