With increasing numbers of high-quality international beauty products becoming popular, the majority of Indian businesses and beauty salons wants to import cosmetics from Japan. Famous for their cutting-edge technology, highest safety measures, and best quality, Japanese cosmetics are currently the world’s most popular skincare and beauty cosmetics. But transporting these best-selling items to the Indian market is not a matter of ordering — it involves compliance with regulatory steps, preparation of the right documentation, and procurement of the right permissions.
Hereafter, we walk you through all there is to importing cosmetics from Japan in India — from getting used to the legal scenario and registration process to customs clearance and regulation compliance at every step.
Why Import Cosmetics From Japan?
Japanese cosmetics are becoming hugely popular in India, and there’s a very good reason for it. Here’s why all business houses are eager to import Japanese cosmetics:
- High Quality and Safe: They are top-notch in terms of quality and safety. They have soft ingredients and pass very tough tests, so they can be safely applied to any kind of skin.
- Innovative Products: Japan is constantly at the forefront of skincare technology. Their cosmetics are usually made up of innovative and functional products, and they deliver great results.
- Clean and Simple Beauty: The majority of the Japanese brands are clean, natural, and simple in beauty. This is what the majority of Indian consumers are looking for these days: good products without bad chemicals.
- Growing Demand in India: Growing numbers of Indian consumers are searching for international skincare products. Japanese cosmetics are already popular online, and there is confidence in their quality.
- Lack of Products: From face wash and serums to foundation and lip products, there is an extensive range of products available in Japan. This gives Indian sellers many options to offer to their customers.
- Trusted Brands: Some of the longest existing and most trusted Japanese brands, like Shiseido, Hada Labo, and DHC, are already popular in India. Importing them officially establishes trust and fosters business.
- Best for Business Growth: With original and genuine Japanese products, you will stand out among the rest in the market, attract more customers, and grow your beauty business in India.
Step-By-Step Process To Import Cosmetics From Japan To India
Japan cosmetics import to India requires a proper clearance and registration procedure. Follow these steps to make it go without any issue:
Step 1: Study The Indian Market
Understand first which cosmetics from Japan are well-liked in India. Search for items that are in demand and popular, like skincare or makeup products.
Step 2: Ensure Product Compliance
Ensure the imported cosmetics comply with Indian laws. Certain chemicals employed in Japan are not allowed in India, so ensure that the products are compatible with Indian safety norms.
Step 3: Appoint An Authorized Indian Agent
If you are not located in India or the producer of the product, you will require an authorized agent within India. They will assist in preparing the application and legal processes for you.
Stage 4: Obtain Import Registration with CDSCO
To import your cosmetic products, you will first need to register with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO). You cannot import anything under the nomenclature of “cosmetic” into India until you obtain the registration certificate.
Stage 5: Label Products Following Indian Laws
You must label the cosmetic products under Indian laws. The label must prominently display various aspects, including product name, manufacturer and expiry date, and name of the importer.
Step 6: Ship The Products To India
After your products have been registered and labeled as above, you can ship your products to India through a freight forwarder or logistics firm having a customs license.
Step 7: Obtain Customs Clearance
Once your shipment reaches the Indian port, you need to produce a Bill of Entry and clear customs. The officials will examine your shipment and confirm its approval status.
Step 8: Obtain ADC And Customs Approval
Your shipment will be inspected by the Assistant Drug Controller (ADC) at the port. Subject to successful inspection, the shipment will be approved and cleared by customs.
Step 9: Sell and Distribute in the Market
After clearing the goods, you can keep them in your warehouse and begin selling in retail outlets. Offer quality and safety of the products.
Step 10: Adhere to Import Compliance
Keep ensuring full regulatory compliance. Maintain records of products, address customer complaints, and renew your import registration before expiry.
Documents Needed to Import Cosmetics from Japan
To successfully import cosmetics from Japan to India, you are required to produce various crucial documents at the time of registration and customs clearance. These are:
- Free Sale Certificate issued by the Japanese regulatory agency
- List of product ingredients with percentage composition
- Manufacturer’s License from Japan
- A Certificate of Analysis for every product
- Power of Attorney in favor of the Indian importer or agent
- CDSCO Registration Certificate (Form COS-2)
- Label artwork acceptable following Indian regulations
- Importer’s and manufacturer’s information
These papers assist CDSCO and Indian customs in checking that the cosmetics are legally acceptable and safe for sale in India.
Who Is Eligible To Import Cosmetics From China To India?
According to the rules and procedures of the Government of India, a person can allow the import of Chinese cosmetic products to India. The following individuals can import cosmetics from other countries:
- Indian Businesses or Companies: If you’re an Indian registered business or entrepreneur, you can import cosmetics.
- Authorized Indian Agents: In case the Chinese cosmetics company lacks an office in India, it may authorize an Indian agent to import the goods on its behalf. The agent should:
- Indian Subsidiaries of Chinese Companies: In case there is an Indian office or branch of a Chinese company, the company can import cosmetics directly after obtaining appropriate CDSCO approvals.
- Distributors or Importers: Distributors or importers of cosmetics who sell them to pharmacies or online outlets may even import cosmetics directly from China.
- Online Sellers (E-commerce): If you are selling online on websites like Amazon or Flipkart, then you may import cosmetics.
Is It Legal To Import Cosmetics From Japan To India?
Yes, you can import cosmetics from Japan as long as you comply with the rules and regulations that have been put into place by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) as stated in the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. Each cosmetic will need to be registered with the CDSCO before import.
Regulatory Authority For Cosmetic Imports In India
The CDSCO is the main regulatory body that regulates cosmetic importation in India. The CDSCO is responsible for licensing the importation of cosmetics under Rule 21 of the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.
FAQ’s
Is A License Required To Import Cosmetics From Japan Into India?
Yes, if the cosmetics are legally allowed to be imported to India, you will require a Cosmetic Import Registration Certificate from the CDSCO.
How Long Will It Take To Get A Cosmetic Registration Certificate?
CDSCO will take approx. 4 to 6 months to issue the Import Certificate for your cosmetics. Once CDSCO has received the relevant documents.
Can I Import Japanese Cosmetics For Personal Use Without Any Registration?
Yes, you can import miniature amounts for use (as opposed to selling or for business) without registering with CDSCO, but customs will examine them.
Are Animal-Tested Cosmetics Allowed To Be Imported In India?
No, cosmetics tested on animals are not allowed to be imported into India.
