During the 35th ASEAN Economic Ministers Meeting on 2 September 2003, the Agreement on the ASEAN Harmonized cosmetic Regulatory scheme was signed by ASEAN Ministers which covers the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD). To enhance the regulation and safety of the cosmetics market, ASEAN requires all member states to comply with the ACD. However, in practice, ASEAN has not achieved unified product regulation. Before being marketed in each ASEAN country, cosmetics must still undergo separate product notification in each respective country. Additionally, each member state maintains its own unique regulatory lists for cosmetic ingredients.
The ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) Annexes outline essential regulatory requirements for cosmetic products in ASEAN countries. Prohibited, restricted and permitted ingredients are included in the Annexes of the ACD. The ASEAN Cosmetic Committee (ACC) and ASEAN Cosmetic Scientific Body (ACSB) meets twice a year to discuss regulations and harmonisation across the region to reduce technical trade barrier which includes amendments to the ACD annexes.
The List of Substances which Cosmetic Products Must not Contain except Subject to Restrictions and Conditions Laid Down is included in the Annex III Part I. The corresponding CAS Number, Restrictions (Field of application and/or use, Maximum authorised concentration in the ready for use preparation and Other limitations and requirements) and Conditions of use and warning which must be printed on the labels for each substance are provided.
Regulatory Implications of the List of Substances which Cosmetic Products Must not Contain except Subject to Restrictions and Conditions Laid Down
The ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) Annexes set out the core compliance requirements for cosmetics in the ASEAN market. For cosmetic companies, adhering to this List is essential to ensure product safety, legal market entry, and regulatory compliance. It is strongly recommended that cosmetic companies carefully check their product formulations before production or export to the ASEAN market to ensure compliance with the List, avoid regulatory risks, and facilitate smooth product launch.
How to Search the List of Substances which Cosmetic Products Must not Contain except Subject to Restrictions and Conditions Laid Down
Click here to search the List on GlobalCosIng.
Regulations and Standards
ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD)
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- ASEAN Cosmetics Notification
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