European Union Drastically Revises Cosmetic Regulations: Expectations for Enhanced Competitiveness through Relaxation of Consumer Goods Procedures
The European Union is drastically revising major consumer goods regulations, including cosmetics, introducing new exception procedures to stringent prohibitions and easing labeling obligations. This revision is expected to enhance the competitiveness of the overall chemical industry, with the introduction of risk-based assessment methods and a transition to digital labeling.
Announcement of the 6th Chemical Simplification Omnibus
The European Commission (EC) announced the '6th Chemical Simplification Omnibus' on the 8th (local time), aiming to enhance the competitiveness and improve regulatory procedures of the chemical industry. The 'Action Plan for the Chemicals Industry' was also presented as part of an industry support strategy.
This omnibus includes four major legislative amendments: the Cosmetic Products Regulation (CPR), the Classification, Labelling, and Packaging Regulation (CLPR), Fertilising Products Regulation (FPR), and the Waste Shipment Regulation. The EC emphasized that these amendments aim to enhance legal consistency, reduce overlapping regulations or unnecessary prohibitions, thereby improving the overall competitiveness of the chemical industry.
Key Components of the Cosmetic Regulation Amendment
The key component of the cosmetic regulation amendment is the change in Article 15 of the CPR. Previously, if a substance was classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic for reproduction (CMR) category 1, its use in cosmetics was generally prohibited. However, following the amendment, conditional exceptions can be allowed based on evaluation by the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS).
The EC explained through official Q&A material that
"This amendment is premised on the scientific review of the SCCS, enabling risk-based assessment according to actual use conditions."
As a result, some ingredients, which were widely used in the past but banned due to CMR classification, can be reused if their safety is proven. The EC also announced the establishment of 'realistic reformulation timelines' to mitigate the burden arising from complicated formulation changes. This improvement signifies an official shift from the existing 'hazard-based ban' principle to a 'risk-based regulation' system.
Easing of CLPR and Labeling Regulations
The CLPR amendment relaxes regulations on product packaging and labeling, allowing the replacement of mandatory warning phrases for specific hazardous substances on the product front with an integrated guide suggesting to 'refer to the complete label.'
This change reflects the intention to lay the groundwork for a digital labeling transition. The EC stated
"This lays the foundation for digital labeling transition, enhancing consumer information accessibility while reducing confusion."
The EC also stated that these amendments will cut fixed costs, simplify approval procedures, and improve overall regulatory efficiency. All amendments will be subject to scrutiny by the European Parliament and the Council, published in the official gazette, and take effect 20 days after publication. While some provisions may have a grace period, no separate grace provisions have currently been announced for the Cosmetic Products Regulation (CPR).
Reactions of Industry and Citizen Groups
Reactions to the amendments are mixed between industry and citizen groups. The European Cosmetics Association (Cosmetics Europe) welcomed the procedural simplification as a positive move for the industry.
According to the association's official commentary,
"Flexible application based on scientific assessment by the SCCS is a welcome measure."
On the other hand, the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) expressed concern that this amendment could lower consumer protection. BEUC warned,
"Even if deemed low risk, re-allowing carcinogenic substances in cosmetics is a setback for consumer protection."
In relation to this, Jessica Rosewell, EC's Commissioner for Environment and Circular Economy, emphasized
"This move is not about lowering protection levels, but an effort to reduce administrative burdens." She stressed that the essence of regulatory easing lies in enhancing efficiency.
In Closing
The recent regulatory amendment by the European Union aims to reinforce the competitiveness of the consumer goods industry by easing existing prohibitions. Such changes are anticipated to make regulatory procedures more efficient, ultimately contributing to industrial development. However, controversies related to consumer safety still persist, necessitating continuous attention and assessment in the future.
The easing of European cosmetic regulations presents a significant strategic opportunity and is expected to enhance market competitiveness. To respond to these changes with the trusted YURICO5, please inquire.
