Soaps, creams, balms, hair products: many cosmetics from Asia are popular in France. But a cosmetic is not sold like an ordinary object: the importer becomes legally responsible for the product.
The importer becomes the "responsible person"
Under Regulation (EC) 1223/2009, each cosmetic sold in the European Union has a responsible person established in the Union. For an imported product, it is the importer, unless it designates in writing another person who accepts this role.
The essential obligations
- A product information file, with a safety report drawn up by a qualified assessor, kept for 10 years after the last batch was placed on the market.
- A notification of the product on the European CPNP portal, before the first sale.
- A label with the name and address of the responsible person and the list of ingredients (INCI names), with the particulars in French.
- Authorised ingredients: some substances are prohibited or restricted in Europe, even if they are allowed in Asia.
Inspection in France: DGCCRF.
Good to know: the Passerelle does not accept medicines or food supplements (see our registration conditions). Cosmetics and care products are accepted.
The rule common to all products
Since 13 December 2024, the European regulation on general product safety (Regulation (EU) 2023/988) requires a responsible economic operator established in the European Union (often the importer) to be indicated, with its contact details, on the product, its packaging or an accompanying document. A company that imports from China, Vietnam or Thailand to sell in France becomes this operator: it is the one that answers for the product.
To go further
Looking for a manufacturer in Asia, verified in the official register of its country?
Publish a requestSources (consulted on 1 November 2026): Regulation (EC) 1223/2009 on cosmetic products (articles 4, 11, 13, 19), European Commission; Regulation (EU) 2023/988.
For information only, up to date on 1 November 2026. General information, not legal advice: check the official text (EUR-Lex) and ask the inspection authority before selling. This information does not engage the liability of Passerelle France-Asie.