Overview
China’s perfume market started relatively late but has developed rapidly. By 2028, the market size is expected to increase from RMB 22.9 billion (USD 3.14 billion) in 2023 to RMB 44.0 billion (USD 6.04 billion), with a CAGR of 14%. From January to August 2025, nearly 8,000 new perfume products have completed cosmetic notification in China.
Due to their special characteristics, the compliance work for perfume products involves not only the regulatory requirements for cosmetics, but also those governing hazardous chemicals and dangerous goods.
This article aims to provide a clear guide outlining the compliance procedures and key points for perfume products in China, helping enterprises efficiently and compliantly market their perfume products.
China's Cosmetics Regulatory Requirements for Perfumes
In China, perfume is classified as a general cosmetic and regulated primarily by the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) and the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). Before a product can be imported or sold, a cosmetic notification must be completed with the competent authority based on the location of the Domestic Responsible Person (DRP). The DRP—an entity legally established in China—is accountable for product quality, safety monitoring, and recall management.
The notification dossier of imported perfumes typically includes product formula, test reports, Certificate of Free Sale, safety assessment, and label samples. Preparation, testing, and submission usually take 2–3 months for first-time imported perfumes. Once on file, notifiers must submit an annual report via the NMPA platform between January 1 and March 31 each year.
Chinese labeling is mandatory, and labels must display detailed product and contact information, full ingredient listings, warnings, and expiration dates. For fragrance allergens, additional disclosure is required if allergens are listed on the original packaging of imported products.
Hazardous Chemicals Management Requirements for Perfumes
Due to the high ethanol concentration, many perfumes are classified as flammable liquids (Category 3) under the Catalogue of Hazardous Chemicals (2015). Once identified as hazardous, manufacturers and importers must complete Hazardous Chemical Registration through the Ministry of Emergency Management (MEM) system before production or import.
In certain regions, daily-use chemicals such as perfumes may be exempt from holding an Operation License of Hazardous Chemicals, but enterprises should verify local requirements with the emergency management authorities.
Dangerous Goods Transport Compliance in China
Perfume falls under the UN Class 3 Flammable Liquids category, specifically UN1266 – Perfumes, containing alcohol. When transported in small volumes, perfumes may qualify for Limited Quantity (LQ) shipment exemptions under GB 12268–2012 and GB 6944–2012.
To ensure safe and cost-effective logistics, enterprises should:
Obtain formal dangerous goods identification reports from certified laboratories. (CMA, CNAS, or ISO accredited),
Use compliant packaging materials,
Prepare accurate Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and declarations,
Cooperate with experienced transport carriers.
Customs Clearance Essentials
Perfume imports to China fall under both cosmetics and hazardous goods supervision. Importers must obtain the cosmetic notification certificate before the customs declaration.
The customs clearance process for imported perfume proceeds as follows:
Key documents required for perfume import declaration include the bill of lading, packing list, invoice, certificate of conformity, and product information sheets. Declarations are submitted electronically via the China International Trade Single Window.
Importers are responsible for paying applicable customs duty (3%), VAT (13%), and consumption tax (15%).
Conclusion
Navigating China’s perfume compliance pathway requires close coordination among regulatory, logistics, and commercial teams. From cosmetic notification to hazardous substance registration, each step involves distinct authorities and strict documentation standards. A comprehensive and compliant strategy ensures smoother entry, minimizes regulatory risks, and accelerates time-to-market in the world’s fastest-growing fragrance market.
Comprehensive Compliance Support for Perfume Products in China
REACH24H Consulting Group provides end-to-end compliance solutions for global market access. With a multidisciplinary team spanning China, the EU, the U.S., the U.K., Japan, South Korea, and Southeast Asia, REACH24H empowers companies to enter global markets confidently.
Our perfume compliance services include:
Cosmetic Safety Assessment Report
China Customs Clearance Services
Formula and Label Review
Get Started Today
Whether you are an emerging fragrance brand or a global beauty leader, REACH24H helps ensure your perfume products meet every regulatory requirement—from formulation to market launch.
Contact us to learn how we can guide your perfume business through every step of compliance in China.
