Korean cosmetics products are experiencing a meteoric rise in India. Indian consumers are becoming increasingly aware of skincare needs and the ingredients in their products. Korean cosmetics products, popularly known as the K-beauty products, are rapidly capturing the attention of Indian consumers. These cosmetics products focus on hydration, glowing skin, and gentle yet effective formulations. These properties are resonating with Indian consumers looking for effective and personalised skincare. Notably, Korean cosmetics products have to meet Indian regulations for the safety of Indian consumers. Hence, importers will have to secure the CDSCO cosmetics import license to import cosmetics from Korea into India. The CDSCO cosmetics import license is an official endorsement certifying the foreign cosmetics meet Indian health standards.
Korean cosmetics products market in India
Korean cosmetics products have reshaped global skincare market and is having an undeniable influence in India. Indian consumers are willing to purchase premium imported cosmetics products. As Korean cosmetics products have natural ingredients and proven effectiveness, they are becoming increasingly popular in India. Additionally, social media influencers and Youtubers have a significant role in the meteoric rise of the popularity of K-beauty products in India.
As Korean beauty products offer clear and visible benefits, they are gaining traction in India. Moreover, many brands are now launching cosmetics products tailored for Indian requirements. Korean beauty companies are modifying their products to suit the unique skin types and climatic conditions of India. Hence, to further increase the footprint of Korean cosmetics products in India, they are being customised to cater to the Indian requirements.
6 key factors driving the growth of Korean cosmetics products market in India
We have highlighted the key factors driving the growth of Korean cosmetics products market in India:
- Quality and ingredients: Korean beauty products are known for their high quality, use of natural ingredients, and unique as well as effective formulations. Indian consumers are opting for Korean cosmetics products owing to this major attribute.
- Premium products: Indian consumers are increasingly willing to spend on premium imported cosmetics products. This has created an opportunity for Korean cosmetics products to thrive in India.
- Social media influence: Social media has played a major role in popularizing Korean beauty trends and products in India.
- Increase in awareness: Indian consumers are becoming increasingly aware of their skincare needs and are opting for effective and innovative products. Korean cosmetics products cater to these needs.
- Products modified per Indian requirements: Korean cosmetics products offer a wide range of products customised per Indian skin type and requirements.
- E-commerce expansion: E-commerce platforms have made it easier for Indian consumers to access and purchase Korean cosmetics, further boosting their popularity.
The Korean cosmetics products market has a bright future in India, with continued growth expected in the coming years. As the demand for high-quality, effective, and natural skincare products grow, Korean products will be a driving force in India’s cosmetics industry. Hence, Indian cosmetics product importers should reap the benefits of the Korean cosmetics products’ trend in India. Thus, starting a Korean cosmetics product import business in India will be highly profitable.
CDSCO regulations for importing Korean cosmetics products to India
Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) heavily regulates all cosmetics being imported from Korea into India. All cosmetics imported into India will have to be registered with the CDSCO. To import cosmetics from Korea into India, you have to mandatorily secure the CDSCO cosmetics import license. We have prepared this detailed guide to help you easily secure the license to import cosmetics from Korea into India.
License required to import cosmetics from Korea into India
To import cosmetics from Korea into India, you need to apply for the CDSCO cosmetics import license (import registration certificate).
- COS-1: The application for the imported cosmetics registration has to be filed under COS-1.
- COS-2: CDSCO grants the license to sell and distribute imported cosmetics in India under COS-2.
Documents required to import cosmetics from Korea to India
We have provided an overview of the documents required to secure the CDSCO cosmetics import license.
- Application Form
- Cover letter from the applicant
- A valid Import Export Code (I.E.C.)
- Original copy of Power of Attorney
- Copy of the cosmetics product label
- Specification and test method of the cosmetics product
- Information of the cosmetics product to be imported, including the chemical & safety data (Schedule D III)
- List of the name of countries where import permission or registration of the product has been granted
- Duly authenticated free sale certificate
- Declaration of non-animal testing
- Declaration mentioning the heavy metal and hexachlorophene content level
- Provide a soft copy of the details regarding the cosmetic products, brands, and the manufacturer.
- List of ingredients in the cosmetic product along with their percentage contents
- Package inserts, if any
- Fee receipt
Who can apply for the COS-2 license?
The manufacturer himself, his authorised agent, importer, or subsidiary in India authorised by the manufacturer can apply for the COS-2 license.
Restrictions for importing cosmetics from Korea to India
There are some restrictions on importing cosmetics from Korea into India:
- Cosmetics of subpar quality cannot be imported
- Cosmetics with straight-up false claims cannot be imported into India.
- Any cosmetics whose manufacture or development has involved animal testing at any point after 12th November 2014 cannot be imported into India.
- Cosmetics cannot be imported into India from Korea, if the product is not registered per the rules set by the CLA.
- Cosmetics cannot be imported into India from Korea, unless they comply with the specifications mentioned in the Ninth Schedule.
- Any cosmetic made with hexachlorophene, a mercury compound, or a compound containing lead and arsenic for colouring cannot be imported to India
- Any item that violates the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1945, is strictly prohibited
How to import cosmetics from Korea into India? A step-by-step guide
To import cosmetics from Korea into India, you need to file for an import registration certificate (COS-2 license). As per Drugs & Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Rules, cosmetics import from Korea into India is regulated by the Central Licensing Authority (CLA). Furthermore, the CLA grants the import registration certificate.
- Sign up/ Login the CDSCO online portal to register.
- All the necessary supporting documents have to be uploaded on the online registration portal.
- The application will be reviewed by the regulatory officials. Additionally, the submitted documents will be verified for regulatory compliance.
- After the application is successfully verified, it will be approved. The approval letter for satisfactory application will be posted online on the applicant’s SUGAM dashboard.
- The Central Licensing Authority (CLA) will grant the import registration certificate (COS-2 license) for importing cosmetics from Korea.
Validity of the COS-2 license
The COS-2 license will remain valid for a period of 5 years from the date of issue, unless cancelled or suspended. Furthermore, a fresh registration will be required for any changes associated with the manufacturer or importer.
COS-2 license application fees
To apply for the COS-2 license, you need to pay the COS-2 license application fees. A fee of 1000 USD per category, 50 USD per variants, and 500 USD per manufacturing site is charged.
Timeline for COS-2 license approval
The timeline for COS-2 license approval is 180 working days according to the new Cosmetic Rules, 2020.
To easily import cosmetics from Korea into India choose Pharmadocx Consultants
From document preparation, compilation to COS-2 license application, we provide a comprehensive cosmetics import regulatory service. Moreover, our support does not end with license application. We will continue to support you till you successfully secure your COS-2 license. Additionally, we provide Indian authorized agent service to foreign manufacturers. Email at [email protected] or call/Whatsapp on 9996859227 to import cosmetics from Korea into India without any regulatory hassles.
