With UK-China relations warming up in 2026, now is the perfect time. We handle the complex regulations so you can focus on your brand.
Starmer government actively rebuilding economic ties with China
China streamlined cosmetics registration process in 2024
China now accepts alternative testing for most cosmetics
Chinese consumers increasingly favour premium British brands
These are the hurdles we help you overcome
China's cosmetics regulator (NMPA) requires registration or filing for all imported products. The process is in Chinese and takes months.
Your product labels must comply with Chinese standards — different ingredient names, mandatory warnings, and specific formatting rules.
Many UK brands are cruelty-free. Until recently, China required animal testing for imported cosmetics.
Some ingredients allowed in the UK are restricted or banned in China. One wrong ingredient = rejected application.
"Anti-aging", "whitening", "organic" — these claims have strict rules in China. Wrong claims = penalties.
Registration is just the start. China requires ongoing compliance monitoring, adverse event reporting, and annual updates.
A clear, step-by-step process with realistic timelines
We review your product portfolio, check ingredient compliance, and identify the best registration pathway (general cosmetics vs special cosmetics).
⏱️ 1-2 weeksWe prepare all required documents: product formulation, manufacturing process, safety assessment, and Chinese labels.
⏱️ 2-4 weeksWe coordinate required testing at China-accredited laboratories (microbiological, stability, safety tests).
⏱️ 4-8 weeksWe submit your application to NMPA and handle all communications with regulators, including responding to queries.
⏱️ 2-6 months (depending on product type)Once approved, we help you with customs clearance and connect you with distribution partners if needed.
⏱️ Ongoing supportSerums, moisturisers, cleansers, masks, and treatment products
Lipsticks, foundations, eyeshadows, and makeup products
Body care, haircare, and hygiene products
Clean beauty, vegan, and sustainable brands
🔒 Confidentiality Guaranteed — We work with brands of all sizes, from indie startups to established names. All consultations are strictly confidential.
See what happens when cosmetics brands get it wrong in China
A UK skincare brand marketed products with "anti-aging" claims without registering as special-use cosmetics. China requires pre-approval from NMPA for such efficacy claims.
A major international brand recalled products due to Chinese label errors: wrong ingredient order, incorrect net content format, missing warnings — even though products were safe.
Customs rejected an import shipment containing hydroquinone (a whitening agent). This ingredient is allowed in EU cosmetics but completely banned in China.
A brand used "organic" and "natural certification" labels without Chinese-recognized organic certification. Foreign certifications don't automatically apply in China.
Get a free initial assessment of your products and a realistic timeline for market entry.
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