FMCG Companies Advocate for Separate Regulations for Beauty and Personal Care
Leading FMCG firms in India are calling for a dedicated regulatory framework for beauty and personal care products, separate from the current laws governing pharmaceuticals and food items. Companies argue that the existing regulations, particularly the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, are outdated and do not align with the evolving needs of the cosmetics industry.
Industry Push for Regulatory Clarity
Major players in the sector highlight that beauty and personal care products are often categorized alongside pharmaceuticals, subjecting them to stringent compliance requirements that may not be necessary. FMCG firms believe a standalone law could streamline approvals, encourage innovation, and support the sector’s rapid growth.
The call for change gains momentum as India’s beauty and personal care market continues to expand. Valued at approximately $15 billion, the sector is experiencing rising demand driven by higher disposable incomes, digital influence, and growing consumer awareness. Industry leaders assert that refining regulations could enhance both domestic manufacturing and global competitiveness.
Challenges of the Current Framework
Under the existing law, cosmetic products are regulated alongside drugs, resulting in complex approval processes and labelling requirements that companies see as excessive. Industry executives point out that compliance procedures could be modernized to reflect international best practices, allowing brands to bring new products to market more efficiently.
Many companies stress that separate legislation could address issues unique to beauty and personal care, such as ingredient approvals, claim substantiation, and advertising policies, without the rigidity of pharmaceutical-grade oversight.
Looking Ahead
Industry bodies and corporate leaders are engaging with regulatory authorities to push for an independent law tailored to the sector’s needs. If implemented, such regulations could foster a more innovation-friendly environment, helping Indian brands scale further both domestically and internationally.
As policymakers evaluate these recommendations, FMCG firms remain optimistic that a clear and well-defined regulatory landscape will better support the industry’s expansion while ensuring consumer safety and product quality.