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Highlighted industries are sectors that drive economic growth, innovation, and job creation. They often involve cutting-edge technologies, sustainable solutions.
Over the years, cosmetics have become a part of everyday life. They help in cleansing, beautifying, and improving appearance. Since these products are applied directly to the human body, quality and safety are crucial. To ensure safe and high-quality cosmetics, India regulates their production and import through the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
All cosmetic businesses in India must obtain a valid license, applicable to both local manufacturers and importers. This ensures that products sold in the market are safe for consumer use.
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, regulates pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical devices. Licenses are issued by the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI).
The primary aim of CDSCO is to safeguard public health by ensuring high standards of product quality and safety. The Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 govern import control, clinical trials, and approval of medicines and cosmetics.
As per Section 3(aaa) of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, cosmetics include any product applied to the human body for cleansing, beautification, or improving appearance. This includes creams, lotions, perfumes, hair products, etc.
Cosmetic manufacturing in India is regulated by state licensing authorities. Imported cosmetics must be registered by the Central Licensing Authority. All cosmetic products, their packaging, and manufacturing locations must be registered before being imported.
Rule 13 of the Cosmetic Rules, 2020 empowers the Central Licensing Authority to issue an Import Registration Certificate for cosmetics manufactured abroad but sold in India.
Applications are submitted online through the SUGAM Portal using Form COS-1.
Manufacturers producing cosmetics in India must obtain a state manufacturing license. Labels must comply with Indian cosmetic labeling requirements.
The NSWS portal was introduced by the Government of India to streamline approvals for investors. It provides a single platform for all required authorizations and is used for cosmetics and medical device applications under CDSCO.
Since January 2024, the NSWS portal handles:
All applications are now processed exclusively through NSWS, replacing the former CDSCO online system.
Any foreign manufacturer wishing to sell cosmetics in India must obtain an Import Registration Certificate. The process includes:
| Fee Description | Amount |
|---|---|
| Per type of cosmetic | USD 1000 |
| Per manufacturing site | USD 500 |
| Per variant | USD 50 |
| Additional per category | USD 1000 |
| Description | Fees |
|---|---|
| 10 or fewer products in a category | INR 10,000 |
| Each additional product | INR 500 |
The registration certificate remains valid for five years from the date of issue unless suspended or canceled. Renewal fees must be paid to extend the validity.
Cosmetic registration is mandatory under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020 before any product can be sold in India. Although the process involves documentation, fees, and inspections, expert support makes it easier.
Presto Laboratories assists companies in cosmetic testing, certification, and registration. With guidance from experienced professionals, businesses can confidently enter the Indian cosmetics market.