In the first quarter of 2024, significant regulatory developments were observed worldwide:
- The Advertising Standards Authority criticized a Rimmel advertisement for schools, labeling it as irresponsible due to its implication that makeup is a prerequisite for success.
- China’s medical authority put a halt on imports from Japanese cosmetics company Hoyu Co., citing issues related to production compliance.
- New Zealand made strides towards a sustainable future by announcing a ban on PFAS in cosmetics by 2026, positioning itself to potentially be the pioneering nation to eliminate these “forever chemicals.”
- Alarm arose when Valisure discovered carcinogenic benzene in widely-used acne treatments, prompting a call for an FDA recall to protect consumer health.
During the second quarter:
- Authorities in Shanghai finalized the Shanghai Cosmetics Industry Advertising Compliance Guidelines.
- The US Environmental Protection Agency took a transformative step by establishing a drinkable water standard for “forever chemicals,” with a $1 billion fund to assist states in testing public water systems.
- To ensure high-standard sun protection, Standards Australia mandated compliance with the AS/NZS 2604:2021 sunscreen standards by 2024 to align locally with global safety expectations.
- The European Parliament cast a vote to hold the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors financially accountable for the clean-up of wastewater.
- In the US, the FDA issued a caution against counterfeit AbbVie Botox, used cosmetically in various states, following adverse effect reports.
- Criticism was aimed at the FDA for missing its deadline to propose a ban on formaldehyde in hair relaxers despite associated cancer risks.
- California Assemblymember Alex Lee’s proposed bill AB 2491 sought to prohibit the sale of anti-aging skincare to minors under 13, facing opposition from the Personal Care Products Council over regulatory concerns.
Come quarter three:
- The European Union announced plans to implement customs duties on affordable products from Chinese online platforms by removing the €150 duty-free cap.
- Indonesia enacted high import duties on items such as ceramics, cosmetics, and apparel as a protective measure for local industries.
- In response to unfair pricing, the European Union imposed anti-dumping duties on Chinese titanium dioxide imports.
- Brazil and Chile signed an agreement to streamline regional cosmetics regulations and stimulate economic collaboration.
- Unilever received approval to sell its Russian assets, aligning with its strategic operational streamlining amid geopolitical issues.
- New restrictions by the EU outlawed cosmetic silicones D4, D5, and D6 in various products due to potential health and environmental concerns.
- China initiated an anti-dumping investigation into Canadian rapeseed imports following Canada’s tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, heightening trade tensions.
- The US prepared to revoke the de minimis rule on low-value goods, aiming for heightened tariffs on Chinese imports affecting platforms like Temu and Shein.
- US Representatives urged the FDA to expedite a ban on formaldehyde in hair straighteners, emphasizing health risks involved.
In the final quarter of 2024:
- Tom’s of Maine received a warning from the FDA regarding quality lapses at its Sanford facility after finding bacteria in its toothpaste production.
- Natura & Co reached a financial agreement with Avon creditors to stabilize their acquisition following Avon’s Chapter 11 restructuring.
- The CTPA launched its Agenda for Government to align UK cosmetics industry priorities by engaging MPs, regulators, and business leaders.