Cosmetic Packaging Export Certifications: Complete Guide
What you need to know about FDA, REACH, ROHS, and GMP for global markets
Published: May 1, 2026 · Reading time: 6 min
Exporting cosmetic packaging to different countries means navigating a complex landscape of regulations and certifications. Missing a required certification can delay shipments, result in fines, or prevent market entry entirely. This guide breaks down the key certifications you need for North America, Europe, and other major markets.
FDA (US Market)
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulates cosmetic packaging under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Packaging materials must comply with 21 CFR (Code of Federal Regulations) for food-contact substances.
- Required for: US market entry
- Scope: All plastic, glass, and metal packaging materials
- Key requirement: Materials must not transfer harmful substances
- Process: Material declaration + third-party testing
REACH (EU Market)
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) is the European Union's regulatory framework for chemical safety. All cosmetic packaging exported to EU member states must comply.
- Required for: EU, EEA (European Economic Area)
- Key focus: Restricted substances (SVHC - Substances of Very High Concern)
- Requires: Supply chain communication + compliance documentation
- Update: SVHC list updated twice per year
ROHS (Global)
The Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive limits the use of specific hazardous materials including lead, mercury, cadmium, and certain flame retardants. While originally designed for electronics, ROHS compliance is increasingly requested for cosmetic packaging.
- Required for: Global, especially EU and North America
- Key limits: Lead < 1000ppm, Mercury < 1000ppm, Cadmium < 100ppm
- Testing: XRF screening + wet chemical analysis
GMP / ISO 22716 (Global)
Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) for cosmetics, standardized as ISO 22716, covers the entire production process from raw material receipt to finished product dispatch. It ensures consistent quality and traceability.
- Scope: Factory production process, not just materials
- Covers: Personnel, premises, equipment, production, quality control
- Benefit: Required by many international brand partners
How to Get Certified: Step by Step
Material Declaration
Provide full material composition to your supplier. Include all additives, colorants, and coatings used in the packaging.
Select Testing Lab
Choose an accredited third-party lab (SGS, Intertek, TÜV, or Bureau Veritas) for certification testing.
Sample Testing
Send packaging samples for the required tests. Typical turnaround: 7-15 business days per certification.
Certificate Issuance
Receive the compliance certificate. Most certifications are valid for 1-3 years, with annual surveillance audits.
Common Certification Questions
Do all cosmetic packaging products need FDA certification?
While FDA registration is not mandatory for all cosmetic packaging products, most US retailers and brand partners require FDA compliance documentation. Having FDA-certified materials is a competitive advantage.
How much do certification tests cost?
Costs vary by certification type and material. Typically: FDA compliance testing ¥2,000-5,000 per material; REACH SVHC testing ¥3,000-8,000; ROHS testing ¥1,500-3,000. Full certification packages available.
How long does certification take?
Standard certification testing takes 7-15 business days. Full compliance documentation including supply chain declarations typically requires 3-4 weeks.
Need certified packaging for your brand?
We supply FDA, REACH, and ROHS certified packaging. Contact us for a compliance consultation.
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