𝐒 𝐉 𝐄𝐗𝐈𝐌 𝐒𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬

“Indirect Tax I Indirect Tax Litigation I Customs & FTP I Central Licensing I Arbitration I Advisory”

Dated: 24.07.2026

CDSCO Cracks Down on Unregistered Imported Cosmetics: Enhanced Surveillance and Compliance Measures Announced

The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has issued a crucial circular dated July 22, 2026, emphasizing the need for strict vigilance on imported cosmetics sold in the Indian market without valid import registration certificates. This directive is a significant step towards ensuring consumer safety and regulatory compliance in the cosmetics sector.

Background: Regulatory Framework for Cosmetics in India

The Cosmetics Rules, 2020, notified under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, lay down comprehensive guidelines for the import, manufacture, and sale of cosmetics in India. According to Rule 12(1):

• No cosmetic shall be imported into India unless registered in accordance with these rules by the Central Licensing Authority or an authorized officer.

This rule is designed to ensure that all cosmetics entering the Indian market meet safety and quality standards, protecting consumers from potentially harmful or substandard products.

The Issue: Unregistered Imported Cosmetics in the Market

Despite clear regulations, the CDSCO has observed that certain imported cosmetics are being sold domestically without the mandatory registration certificate. This practice poses several risks:

1. Consumer Safety Risks: Unregistered products may not have undergone safety assessments, increasing the risk of adverse reactions.
2. Market Integrity: The presence of unregistered products undermines fair competition and regulatory compliance.
3. Legal Consequences: Importing or selling unregistered cosmetics is a violation of the Cosmetics Rules, 2020, and can attract penalties.

CDSCO’s Directive: Enhanced Surveillance and Vigilance

To address this issue, the CDSCO has instructed:

1. State Licensing Authorities (SLAs) and Zonal Heads: Direct the inspectorate under their control to intensify surveillance on imported cosmetics in the domestic market.
2. Port Officers: Maintain strict vigilance at entry points to prevent the import of cosmetics without valid registration certificates.
3. All Related Offices: The circular has been circulated to all port, zonal, and sub-zonal offices, as well as published on the COSCO website, ensuring widespread awareness and action.

What Does This Mean for Stakeholders?

For Importers and Distributors

• Mandatory Compliance: Ensure all imported cosmetics have valid registration certificates before entering the Indian market.
• Documentation: Maintain up-to-date records and certificates for all products.

For Retailers

• Product Verification: Source cosmetics only from authorized importers and verify registration status.
• Awareness: Stay informed about regulatory updates to avoid stocking non-compliant products.

For Consumers

• Safety First: Purchase cosmetics from reputable sources and check for regulatory compliance.
• Reporting: Report suspicious or unregistered products to authorities.

Conclusion

The CDSCO’s circular reinforces the importance of regulatory compliance in the cosmetics industry. Enhanced surveillance and strict enforcement will help safeguard consumer health and uphold the integrity of the Indian cosmetics market.

In case you face any issues related to Indirect Tax-Customs, GST, Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), Arbitration matters and Central Licensing and related advisory matters in India then please feel free to get in touch with SJ EXIM Services.

We offer Legal advice and litigation support in matters related to Indirect Tax-Customs, FTP, other Indirect Tax matters & Arbitration law, all sorts of Central licensing and related matters. Come and explore the new way of doing business with us!

Source: CDSCO

Disclaimer

Handy Download:

Connect with us for more-

@ Team S J EXIM SERVICES, New Delhi, IN

CP: Ms. Shubhra Jha, Founder

Tel: +91-11-4999 2707 I +91-9999005693

Web: www.sjexim.services

EMAIL: operations@sjexim.services  I shubhra@sjexim.services

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sjeximservices

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/90794255/admin/feed/posts/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sjeximIndia

Subscribe our WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaTxDT8JZg4CHEOSoK47

Subscribe our Telegram Channel: https://t.me/sjeximindia