In view of the fact that cosmetics importers have expressed difficulties due to complicated provisions of the newly introduced rules and schedules under Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, Government has formed a committee to look into the matter and asked for suggestions.

The Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB) in its recent meeting has recommended that the system of registration should be discontinued. It may, however, be made simpler so that genuine importers do not face difficulties in importing quality cosmetics into the country.  

The Drugs and Cosmetics (D& C) Rules were amended vide Gazette notification GSR 426 (E) dated May 19, 2010 introducing a provision for registration of import of cosmetics into the country. Under the notification, it was provided that, these rules shall come into force with effect from April 1, 2011. The notification amended the Rule 129 and introduced Rule 129 A, 129 B, 129 C, 129 D, 129 E, 129 F, 129 G and 129 H, Form 42 for application and Form 43 as registration certificate.

Besides this, according to a new Schedule D III, an undertaking has to be provided by the manufacturer under the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945.

Notification came into effect from April 1, 2013 and difficulties were expressed by the importers and other stakeholders. Further representations were also received from New Delhi Association of Cosmetics Importers. The association brought forth the difficulties of small and petty traders in continuing their trade due to complicated provisions of the newly introduced rules and schedules.

DTAB in its meeting stated, "It is for the consideration whether the system of registration should be continued or kept in abeyance or withdrawn in light of the difficulties expressed."

For this purpose, DTAB constituted a committee to examine the issue. The committee would suggest suitable changes in the present rules so that difficulties of the cosmetics importers are addressed without compromising the quality and safety of the cosmetics imported into the country.

Drugs Technical Advisory Board is the highest decision making body under the Union health ministry on technical matters.