New Guidelines Simplify Imports of Cosmetics and Hygiene Products

Peru’s Ministry of Health has introduced new exemptions to streamline the importation of personal-use cosmetic and hygiene products, as part of efforts to modernise regulatory processes and facilitate non-commercial trade.

In a public statement released Monday, the General Directorate of Medicines, Supplies and Drugs (DIGEMID), through its Directorate of Medical Devices and Health Products, confirmed that individuals importing small quantities of specific sanitary goods will no longer be required to present a Mandatory Health Notification (Notificación Sanitaria Obligatoria) or Health Registration Certificate.

The measure applies exclusively to natural persons using simplified customs regimes, including postal packages, express delivery services, and simplified import schemes.

Scope and Limitations

To qualify for the exemption, the following conditions must be met:

• The importer must be a private individual, not a business entity.

• The products must be declared for personal use only.

• Shipments must not exceed four (4) units per package.

• No more than three (3) such shipments may be made per calendar year, regardless of product type.

DIGEMID further clarified that if multiple parcels addressed to the same individual exceed the unit threshold under a single manifest, the exemption will no longer apply. In such cases, standard import requirements, including health registration, would be enforced.

Individual Responsibility Emphasised

Authorities emphasised that responsibility for the use and safety of imported products lies solely with the individual requesting entry. "The use of health products declared for personal use is under the exclusive responsibility of the applicant," the notice stated.

The updated guidance was previously communicated to the National Superintendency of Customs and Tax Administration (SUNAT) via Official Letter No. 355-2018-DIGEMID-DG-EA/MINSA. Further details can be found here (in Spanish).