China Cosmetics Regulatory Updates: September 2026 Ingredient Changes and Import Risks

China Cosmetics Regulatory Updates: Ingredient Information and Status

Consultation on 913 Existing Ingredients

NIDC's consultation covers CAS numbers, chemical structures, molecular formulas and molecular weights for 913 existing cosmetic ingredients. It follows the framework established under NMPA's announcement on the administration of the Inventory of Existing Cosmetic Ingredients (IECIC), which provides for dynamic inventory updates and corrections.

This is an ingredient information consultation, not the authorization of 913 new ingredients. Overseas suppliers and formulators should compare the proposed information with their specifications and China submission records, investigate discrepancies and consider submitting feedback before November 25.

New Ingredient Notifications and a Cancellation

The September roundup records 12 new cosmetic ingredient notifications, numbered 20260140–20260151, including sodium chondroitin and Lactococcus lactis powder.

Meanwhile, the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) system showed that the notification for 芋螺肽, numbered 国妆原备字20230010, had been cancelled as of September 18. The ingredient had associated notified cosmetic products.

Brands using the affected ingredient should identify associated formulas and confirm the applicable handling requirements with their supplier and China regulatory team. A historical notification number does not establish current regulatory status. For development projects, an early China new cosmetic ingredient regulatory assessment can help clarify the applicable pathway and evidence needs.

Import Rejections Highlight Documentation Risks

China's September release of August import rejection information listed 25 cosmetic products denied entry. Reported reasons included:

• Non-compliant labeling;

• Discrepancies between goods and supporting documents;

• Shelf-life issues;

• Missing certificates or compliance documentation;

• Packaging deficiencies.

The listed products were returned or destroyed.

Completing product registration or notification does not resolve every import requirement. Exporters should check labels, shipment contents and supporting documents before dispatch. Product and ingredient submissions also remain subject to the responsibilities established in NMPA's Provisions for Registration and Filing of Cosmetics.

What Overseas Brands and Manufacturers Should Do

The main compliance challenge is keeping ingredient data, regulatory records and actual shipments consistent. Businesses should:

• Reconcile ingredient identity information with supplier specifications and China submission records.

• Verify new ingredient notification status before launch, production and supply decisions.

• Assess affected formulas when an ingredient's regulatory status changes.

• Audit Chinese labels and import documents against the products being shipped.