On 14 March 2023, New Zealand notified the WTO of a proposal to amend its Cosmetic Products Group Standard 2020. In particular, the text provides for the alignment of the “Ingredients” annexes with those of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. It also introduces a future ban on PFAS, additional requirements on nanomaterials and the integration of the latest IFRA Standards.
The main aim of this project is to update Annexes 4 to 8 of the reference text (the equivalent of Annexes II to VI of the European Cosmetics Regulation) to bring them into line with the latest adjustments made in Europe.
This concerns the lists of prohibited and restricted substances, as well as those of permitted dyes, preservatives and UV filters, which will thus be regulated in the same way as in the European Union.
The planned revision also includes:
• A proposal to require that products that are not hazardous in themselves, but contain a hazardous substance, comply with the Group Standard
• A ban on cosmetics containing PFAS by 31 December 2025
• The obligation for Responsible Persons to keep available to the authorities a file on the nature of nanomaterials contained in products
• An update of the requirements for fragrance ingredients to include the latest IFRA Standards
• Editorial changes to improve the presentation and usability of the Group Standard
There is a one-year transition period to ensure compliance with the new rules.
Thus, during the 12 months following the notification of the new text in the New Zealand Gazette, manufacturers and importers will be able …
