Cosmetics industry stakeholders in India have advocated for a separate regulatory framework for cosmetics, distinct from the one governing drugs. During a roundtable discussion in New Delhi recently, they highlighted the challenges posed by the current combined regulation under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940. Stakeholders emphasized that this shared framework often leads to over-regulation of cosmetics, stifling innovation and delaying product approvals.

They also called for better harmonization between central and state authorities to streamline processes and reduce compliance burdens, particularly for small and medium enterprises. These reforms aim to foster growth, encourage innovation, and ensure consumer safety in the rapidly expanding cosmetics sector Policy Frameworks for the Cosmetics Sector