Question 1

What are the benefits of joining Cosmetics New Zealand and what does it cost?

Accepted Answer

Membership gives companies access to industry updates, regulatory guidance, advocacy representation, educational webinars, and networking. Fees are tiered by turnover so businesses of all sizes can participate. Members gain visibility, connection, and a collective voice in shaping the future of New Zealand’s beauty and personal-care industry.

For more information or to discuss membership, please contact the General Manager – gm@cosmeticsnz.org

Question 2

How does Cosmetics NZ support members with regulatory changes and compliance updates?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetics New Zealand provides regular updates on regulatory and compliance changes with webinars, engagement with regulators, and newsletters. We advocate on behalf of members to ensure the industry’s best interests are represented. We actively participate in international committees to ensure New Zealand has a strong voice in global regulatory discussions.

Question 3

How do I get GMP certification through Cosmetics New Zealand and what does it mean?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetics New Zealand GMP certification is available to members. This audit is aligned with the requirements of ISO 22716 Cosmetics – Guidelines on Good Manufacturing Practices. Cosmetics New Zealand conducts a physical audit of the premises and issues certificates based on the results of this audit. Manufacturers interested in GMP certification can get in to understand the audit process.

Question 4

What is the process for obtaining China GMP verification and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

The process has 2 steps. The first step is for the manufacturer to obtain registration under the IANZ GMP (Cosmetics) Compliance Monitoring Programme. The second step is for the manufacturer to apply to MBIE with the IANZ certificate to obtain a MBIE verification letter. Brands registering standard cosmetic products (non-special use) in China can use this verification letter as proof the products are manufactured in a GMP environment. This permits products to waive animal testing as part of the registration requirements. Full information on the process is available on the MBIE website.

Question 5

How does CNZ advocate for the cosmetic industry with government and regulators?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetics New Zealand maintains strong relationships with government and regulators. We contribute to submissions on regulatory changes both domestically and internationally. We also represent New Zealand on international committees, including the Australia/New Zealand Sunscreen Standard and ISO Cosmetics Standards.

Question 6

Do I need to register a cosmetic product before selling it in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

No, products do not need to be registered before they are sold in New Zealand. Manufacturers and importers of cosmetic products must register their details with the EPA (Environmental Protection Authority).

Question 7

What is the Cosmetic Products Group Standard (CPGS)?

Accepted Answer

The Cosmetic Product Group Standard is the primary regulation for cosmetic products in New Zealand. Cosmetics are required to meet the requirements of the CPGS and the applicable EPA hazardous substances notices.

Question 8

Which authority regulates cosmetics in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) is responsible for the Cosmetic Product Group Standard in New Zealand.

Question 9

Where can I find guidance on exporting cosmetics from New Zealand to other markets (e.g. Australia, EU, USA, China)?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetics New Zealand has a range of resources on exporting and international market guides available on our website in our member resources section.

Question 10

What is New Zealand’s position on animal testing on cosmetics in NZ?

Accepted Answer

New Zealand has banned animal testing on cosmetics under the Animal Welfare Act.

Question 11

What are the ingredient restrictions or prohibited substances in New Zealand cosmetics?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetic ingredient restrictions and prohibitions are outlined in Schedules 4-8 of the Cosmetic Products Group Standard.

Question 12

What are the labelling requirements for cosmetics in New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

Cosmetic product labels must be written in English and provide a list of all ingredients, enough information to contact the NZ importer or manufacturer, batch code, recommendations on how to dispose of product and packaging, and information on hazards and how to use the product safely. Some restricted ingredients also require specific label statements.

Question 13

Can I claim 'natural' or 'organic' on cosmetics and what evidence do I need?

Accepted Answer

There are no definitions of natural and organic for cosmetics in New Zealand. These claims are required to comply with the Fair-Trading Act. Suitable evidence may include third party certification or compliance with international standards such as ISO 16128.

Question 14

Does Cosmetics New Zealand provide a SDS template?

Accepted Answer

No, Cosmetics New Zealand does not provide a SDS template. The exact requirements for a SDS depend on the type of product and the nature of the hazards. The schedule to the EPA Hazardous Substances (Safety Data Sheets) Notice outlines the content and format requirements of safety data sheets.

Question 15

Do I need to notify the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) before importing or selling cosmetics?

Accepted Answer

Yes, importers and manufacturers must supply their details to the EPA before importing or manufacturing cosmetics for the first time.

Question 16

Can Cosmetics New Zealand provide a Free Sale Certificate and Certificate of Origin?

Accepted Answer

We can provide a Free Sale Certificate to members, but we do not issue Certificates of Origin. These can be obtained through TradeWindow or your local Chamber of Commerce.

Support

A few of our frequently asked questions

What are the benefits of joining Cosmetics New Zealand and what does it cost?

How does Cosmetics NZ support members with regulatory changes and compliance updates?

How do I get GMP certification through Cosmetics New Zealand and what does it mean?

What is the process for obtaining China GMP verification and why is it important?

How does CNZ advocate for the cosmetic industry with government and regulators?

Do I need to register a cosmetic product before selling it in New Zealand?

What is the Cosmetic Products Group Standard (CPGS)?

Which authority regulates cosmetics in New Zealand?

Where can I find guidance on exporting cosmetics from New Zealand to other markets (e.g. Australia, EU, USA, China)?

What is New Zealand’s position on animal testing on cosmetics in NZ?

What are the ingredient restrictions or prohibited substances in New Zealand cosmetics?

What are the labelling requirements for cosmetics in New Zealand?

Can I claim 'natural' or 'organic' on cosmetics and what evidence do I need?

Does Cosmetics New Zealand provide a SDS template?

Do I need to notify the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) before importing or selling cosmetics?

Can Cosmetics New Zealand provide a Free Sale Certificate and Certificate of Origin?

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