China is one of the biggest beauty markets in the world, but up until recently all products (including imported ones) were required by law to undergo animal testing before hitting the shelves.
This would leave brands with one of two choices: miss out on a massive revenue opportunity or subject to animal testing.
But come 2020 this will no longer be the (entire) case.
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The Chinese government has finally approved nine alternative testing methods for cosmetic products, and reportedly will be pushing these as the preffered avenue for pre-market approval. In a statement released by the Institute for In Vitro Sciences, these new regulations will go into effect as of January 1, 2020.
While the announcement is encouraging and a step in the right direction, The Humane Society International have pointed out that this is no guarantee that pre-market or post-market testing will cease in China entirely.
Speaking at a COVERGIRL event in Sydney, Michelle Thew, CEO of Cruelty Free International said there was a time she never thought cruelty-free products would be possible in China, but now there is hope and the business is working towards making it a reality.
Brands registered with Cruelty Free International undergo a rigorous examination to ensure no animal testing is used at any point along the product supply chain, and are automatically ineligible for certification if they distrubte in China.
It’s for the reason that the leaping bunny logo is trusted and the one to look for when shopping cruelty-free.
There may still be a long way to go, but the news of China’s progress is a step in the right direction for animal and beauty lovers alike.
Did you prefer to shop cruelty-free beauty products?
its about time