India requires annual import data from registered importers of cosmetics

On February 23, 2024, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (Cosmetics Division) of India issued a circular outlining the import regulations for cosmetics. The CDSCO has issued the Circular urging importers to comply with the requirement to provide annual import details for cosmetics as per Form COS-4A to avoid potential regulatory penalties.

Details of the Circular

The Government of India has issued an Import Registration Number (lRN) under Form Cos-4A for cosmetics already registered under Rule 13 for import and sale in the country. Importers are required submit an annual declaration to the Central Licensing Authority of cosmetics imported und the IRN conditions specified in Form 4A. However, the Central Licensing Authority has not received the details of cosmetics imported annually by these importers, under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020.

Import Registration Number

An import registration number issued under sub-rule (2) is valid for three years unless suspended or cancelled. If an importer fails to meet conditions, the Central Licensing Authority may suspend or cancel the number, with cause given.

Information required

Every applicant is required to provide the following details of the cosmetic product:

• Number of consignments/bill of entries of each consignment

• Imported quantity in each consignment

• The total cost of imported cosmetics in each consignment

• Warehouse details where those are stored for further distribution

• Sale

The CDSCO encourages importers to comply with the cosmetic import restrictions and submit their annual reports.