Import Cosmetics From Belgium to India and get a slice of one of the fastest-growing beauty and personal care markets! The environmental factors in India are providing exciting opportunities for imported cosmetic products. The current growth in the cosmetic market is driven by substantial increases in consumer demand for quality international products and increasing awareness of world standards for quality and safety. Belgium is one of the top exporting countries of cosmetics and has a reputation for innovation, a good regulatory environment, and a premium quality product overall. If you are considering vending Belgian cosmetics in India, this Guide will discuss the process of bringing your Belgian cosmetic products into the Indian Market including the regulatory requirements, import documentation and CDSCO registration to help you navigate the Indian market.
Why Import Cosmetics From Belgium?
If you are planning to import cosmetics from Belgium to India. Belgium has several internationally recognized beauty labels and manufacturers, typically with the following characteristics:
- Rigorous regulation and extensive quality testing according to the EU
- Innovative formulations, including organic, vegan, and dermatologically tested
- Demonstrated safety and effectiveness in products
- Reputation of ethical manufacturing and clean ingredients
Together, these formed part of the appeal of Belgian Cosmetics to Indian consumers who are increasingly aware of quality and sustainability.
Benefits Of Importing Cosmetics From Belgium To India
The following are the benefits of importing cosmetics from Belgium to India:
- Regulatory Status: The products are already compliant with EU regulations. This makes it easier to register or comply with CDSCO.
- Brand Perception: There is a perception of Belgian cosmetic brands being at a higher price point and generally a premium brand value in the Indian Beauty market.
- Competitive Advantage: It provides Indian distributors with a competitive advantage in launching unique, high-quality SKUs.
- Profit: Because of the high demand for imported beauty products, you can expect to capture a high margin on these products.
Step-by-Step Process To Import Cosmetics From Belgium To India
For importing cosmetics from Belgium to India, you need to follow the steps given below:
Step 1: Appoint an Indian Authorized Agent (IAA)
The Belgian manufacturer must appoint a licensed Indian Authorized Agent who will:
1) Act on behalf of the foreign brand
2) Handle regulatory submissions
3) Hold a valid cosmetic wholesale license (Form 20-C or 20-D)
A notarized and apostilled Power of Attorney (PoA) is required.
Step 2: Apply for Cosmetic Registration Certificate (Form COS-2)
This is mandatory for every product and its variants before import. The Indian agent applies through CDSCO’s SUGAM portal.
Step 3: Apply for Import License (Form COS 2)
Once registered, you need a separate import license to bring products into India.
Step 4: Customs Clearance at Indian Port
Upon arrival:
1) CDSCO officers may inspect and test product samples
2) Clearance is granted after verification
3) Products can then be released into the Indian market
Labeling Requirements For Imported Cosmetics
All cosmetic products must comply with India’s Cosmetic Rules, 2020, which require that labels include:
- Product name
- Manufacturer and importer name and address
- Batch number
- Manufacturing and expiry dates
- Net content (weight/volume)
- Ingredient list (INCI format)
- Maximum Retail Price (MRP in ₹)
- Warnings or directions for safe use
Labels must be in English and must appear on both outer and inner packaging.
Documents Required To Import Cosmetics From Belgium To India
- Form COS-1: Application form
- Power of Attorney (PoA): Notarized & apostilled from Belgium
- Free Sale Certificate (FSC): From the Belgian regulatory authority
- Manufacturing License: Issued in Belgium
- Ingredient List: With percentage composition (INCI format)
- Certificate of Analysis (CoA): For each product/variant
- Stability Data: Shelf-life details
- Label & Artwork: As per Indian labeling norms
- No Animal Testing Declaration
- CDSCO Fee Payment Receipt
How ELT Corporate Can Help You Import Cosmetics To India?
ELT Corporate takes care of the entire importation process for cosmetic products.
- CDSCO Registration: Submits Form COS-1 and obtains your Import Registration Certificate
- Document Support: Produces COFS, ingredient list, test reports, and label as required by Indian rules
- Local Agent: Acts as your Indian Authorized Representative, if you are a foreign brand
- Customs Clearance: Manages HS codes, import duties, and smooth port arrival
- Ongoing Compliance: Manages renewals, updates, and queries from CDSCO
FAQs
Is CDSCO Registration Mandatory For Importing Cosmetics Into India?
Yes, every cosmetic product must be registered with CDSCO before it can be imported or sold in India.
Who Can Apply For CDSCO Cosmetic Registration In India?
Only an Indian Authorized Agent (IAA) with a valid wholesale license (Form 20-C or 20-D) can apply on behalf of a foreign manufacturer.
What Is Form COS-2 Used For?
Form COS-2 is used to apply for the Cosmetic Registration Certificate through CDSCO’s SUGAM portal.
