On 21 November 2024, the two-year grace period for cosmetic products to comply with the updated ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) ended. The updates were introduced during the 36th ASEAN Cosmetic Committee (ACC) meeting and its related sessions in November 2022. Products that do not meet the updated standards must be withdrawn immediately. The amendments reflect the ASEAN region’s approach to aligning with global safety standards and protecting the health of consumers in its 10 member states.

Key Updates to the ACD

• Annex II – List of substances which must not form part of the composition of cosmetic products

A consolidated list of 37 substances previously banned in the EU, has been added to Annex II of the ACD. These include entries from EU regulations (2019/831, 2019/1966, 2021/850, 2021/1902) that are not currently used in ASEAN countries. Specific compounds such as perboric acid, sodium perborate, boron compounds, octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane (D4), and p-BMHCA have also been included in Annex II.

• Titanium Dioxide Regulation

Revised safety criteria for the use of titanium dioxide as a colouring agent (Annex IV) and as a UV filter (Annex VII) have been adopted as per EU standards.

• Salicylic Acid Regulation

New limits have been introduced for salicylic acid in the Restricted Substance List (Annexes III) and in the Preservatives list (Annex VI), used in body creams, lotions, and other specific applications.

Implications for Industry

Cosmetic manufacturers, traders, and distributors were granted a two-year grace period to reformulate, test and phase out non-compliant products. With the end of this period concluded, compliance is now mandatory, ensuring that products meet updated safety requirements.

Detailed guidelines for compliance can be found here.

On 12 November 2024, Singapore’s National Environment Agency (NEA) announced regulatory updates for Dechlorane Plus and UV-328, in line with the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). The manufacture, import, and export of these substances, as well as products containing them will be prohibited from 26 February 2025, except for certain exempted uses. 

In a previous circular issued on 6 May 2024, the NEA informed stakeholders about the elimination of Dechlorane Plus, Methoxychlor and UV-328 under the Stockholm Convention. The circular outlined the phase-out schedule and urged stakeholders to prepare for the phase-out of these substances by the specified deadline.

Exemptions to Meet Critical Industry Needs

In recognition of industry feedback regarding the critical role of Dechlorane Plus and UV-328 in certain specific applications, the NEA has approved exemptions for applications in medical devices, aerospace, defence, motor vehicles and industrial machinery, among others. These exemptions which are detailed in Annex I of the update, will continue to be reviewed on a regular basis on the availability of viable alternatives, with stakeholder consultations taking place during the reviews. 

Trade Requirements for Controlled Substances

To ensure smooth implementation and compliance with the forthcoming regulations, the NEA has specified clear trade requirements for the import and export of Dechlorane Plus and UV-328. These measures are designed to enhance monitoring and facilitate proper reporting of controlled substances. The following applies:

- Specific Harmonized System (HS) and Product Codes listed in Annex II of the update must be used for all TradeNet® permit applications. 

- Permits will require approval from NEA’s Chemical Control and Management Department (CCMD). 

Additional Resources and Support

For detailed information on the management of hazardous substances in Singapore, please visit NEA’s hazardous substances page here. 

This regulatory update reflects Singapore’s commitment to international environmental standards while meeting the needs  of industry.