Introduction

As we head into 2026, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is witnessing a profound shift in cosmetic regulations. Significant updates are unfolding across key markets: Japan is nearing the end of its transitional period for revised quasi-drug standards, while South Korea is fundamentally reshaping its industry with a proposed mandatory safety assessment system and tighter controls on cross-border e-commerce. Meanwhile, Indonesia is approaching a historic milestone with its 2026 mandatory Halal certification deadline.

For global brands, 2026 will be a year defined by technical recalibration and strategic compliance. This report summarizes the critical regulatory transitions in APAC that will dictate market access and operational continuity in the coming year.

Japan Revises Quasi-Drug Ingredient Standards with Transitional Period Through September 2026

On March 21, 2025, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) announced significant amendments to the Japnese Standards of Quasi-Drug Ingredients 2021 (JSQI 2021). The amendments update 15 general test methods and revise specifications for 222 quasi-drug ingredients. Related requirements for quasi-drug manufacturing and marketing authorization applications were also adjusted to align with the revised standards.

The revisions took effect upon publication, with a transitional period running through September 30, 2026. From October 1, 2026, affected products must fully comply with the revised standards.

South Korea Moves Toward Mandatory Cosmetic Safety Assessment System

In September 2025, two draft amendments to Korea’s Cosmetics Act were introduced, including one proposing the introduction of a mandatory cosmetic safety assessment system. On September 10, 2025, the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) held a policy briefing and industry consultation, releasing a preliminary framework for the system.

According to MFDS, the proposed system will adopt a post-market surveillance model similar to that of the EU and will be implemented in phases. Safety assessment documentation is expected to consist of:

• safety information,

• safety assessment conclusions, and

• signatures and qualification credentials of the safety assessor.

Detailed requirements will be clarified through subsequent notices and guidance.

South Korea to Strengthen Oversight of Cosmetics Purchased Directly from Overseas 

On April 1, 2025, South Korea promulgated amendments to the Cosmetics Act to strengthen regulatory oversight of cosmetics purchased via overseas direct-to-consumer channels. Such products are defined as cosmetics purchased through foreign e-commerce platforms for personal use.

MFDS will establish detailed management measures and enhance quality control through risk information disclosure and on-site inspections. The amended provisions will enter into force on April 2, 2026.

Indonesia’s Mandatory Halal Certification Deadline for Cosmetics Approaches

Under Indonesia’s Government Regulation No. 42 of 2024 on the Implementation of the Field of Halal Product Assurance, cosmetics, along with food, beverages, traditional medicines, supplements, chemicals, genetically modified products, and other consumer goods, must complete Halal certification by October 17, 2026.