Commission moves on with simplification programme in the field of cosmetics

The European Commission has launched a consultation round for stakeholders in the field of cosmetics, to come to a simplified and modern regulatory framework for the industry, which avoids unnecessary costs. This new framework should replace the existing EU Cosmetics Directive from 1976, which has become a “patchwork” of almost 50 amendments without coherent terminology. Moreover, many provisions appear in the wrong context and the detailed regulation of individual substances used for cosmetics has proven very complex, resource-intensive and difficult to administer. This renders compliance more onerous and costly than necessary for the industry, which is world leader in this field. The consultation round will end in March 2007 and must lead to a new framework by 2010 at the latest. The existing provisions on the ban and phasing-out of animal-tests for cosmetic products by 2009/2013 are not going to be part of this exercise.

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