Senate Committee Approves Bill to Regulate Substandard Cosmetics
The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology has approved a proposed law aimed at regulating the manufacturing and import of substandard cosmetics in Pakistan.
The committee also approved a separate bill seeking to prohibit the use of energy drinks in educational institutions.
Proposed Penalties for Substandard Cosmetics
The committee discussed the General Cosmetics Bill 2026 in detail during a meeting chaired by its head, Senator Kamal Ali Agha.
Federal Minister for Science and Technology Raja Hayat Harraj told the committee that Pakistan currently lacks an effective government regulatory framework for the cosmetics industry.
He highlighted concerns over the use of potentially harmful substances in some beauty products and stressed the need for stronger quality controls.
The minister said inadequate regulation and the absence of consistent quality standards have also created difficulties for Pakistani cosmetics manufacturers seeking to export their products.
Up to Seven Years in Prison Proposed
Under the proposed legislation, manufacturers or importers found dealing in substandard cosmetics could face strict penalties.
The bill proposes a prison sentence of up to seven years and a fine of up to Rs. 10 million for manufacturing or importing cosmetics that fail to meet the required standards.
A duty on imported cosmetics has also been proposed as part of the legislation.
New Regulatory Authority Proposed
The bill further recommends establishing a dedicated authority to oversee the cosmetics sector.
The proposed body would be responsible for helping prevent the manufacture and sale of products that do not meet prescribed safety and quality requirements.
The move is intended to strengthen oversight of the cosmetics market and provide consumers with greater protection.
Committee Approves Two Bills
In the same meeting, the Senate committee approved a bill proposing restrictions on energy drinks in educational institutions.
Both bills were approved unanimously by the committee and will proceed through the next stages of the legislative process.
