Senate Committee Approves Bill Against Substandard Cosmetics

The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology has greenlit two bills, aiming to crack down on substandard cosmetics and prohibit the use of energy drinks in educational establishments. The meeting, presided over by committee chair Kamal Ali Agha, delved into the specifics of the General Cosmetics Bill 2026. Federal Minister Raja Hayat Harraj informed the committee that the government currently lacks oversight in the cosmetics industry.

He highlighted the dangers of mercury in beauty products, contributing to skin cancer, and the absence of regulation and quality benchmarks that hinder exports. Harraj emphasized how cosmetics manufacturers have amassed fortunes, with Chichawatni emerging as the leading hub. He revealed that many individuals import cosmetics from abroad in bags to sell in prominent stores.

The proposed legislation would impose duties on imported cosmetics, and manufacturers or importers of substandard cosmetics could face up to seven years imprisonment and a fine of up to Rs10 million. Additionally, the bill suggests establishing an authority to curb the sale and production of inferior cosmetics. Both bills garnered unanimous approval from the committee.