Chinese cosmetics manufacturers must exchange or obtain a Cosmetic Production License before 31 December 2016 to continue manufacturing activities.

The new Cosmetic Production License, which now be accessed via local Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA),consolidates and replaces the old system.

Previously, cosmetics manufacturers would have to obtain a Cosmetics Production License, known as a National Industrial Production Permit, from Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ)and a Hygiene License, called a Sanitary Certificate of Cosmetics Manufacturer.

CFDA announced the update on 15 December 2015,giving companies a year to complete the application process and receive the Cosmetic Production License.From 1 January 2016, new manufacturers have been able to apply for the license and existing manufacturers have been able to exchange their old licenses.

Companies that fail to make appropriate provisions and complete their application by 31 December 2016 will be prevented from carrying out any manufacturing activities.

Once the consolidation process is complete, the CFDA will eradicate the requirement to display a QS Label on cosmetic packaging. The Cosmetics Production License does not contain any requirements relating to the use of QS Labels. The Label, which since 2005 has been compulsory on all cosmetics products, will therefore no longer feature on cosmetic product packaging.

CFDA states that from 1 July 2017, domestic manufacturers in China must only use new packaging that satisfies the rules stated in the Cosmetics Production License.

However, packaged products that adhere to the preceding regulations can be available for purchase until they reach their expiration date. After that date, they must be replaced with packaging that complies with the new regulations.