China

Fragrance and regulation in China

China is one of the world’s largest and fastest-growing fragrance markets. The country combines a long tradition of aromatic materials with expanding demand for scented consumer products. Regulatory frameworks are evolving in parallel, with increasing attention to chemical safety, ingredient transparency, and environmental impact. Fragrance ingredients are generally regulated under the broader chemicals and cosmetics legislation, with updates reflecting both domestic priorities and global alignment.

Navigating fragrance in China

Fragrance in a changing market
Consumer preferences in China are becoming more sophisticated, with interest in premium scents, natural ingredients, and product safety. This is driving innovation across the value chain — from local perfumery to multinational formulation. Domestic and international brands are investing in tailored fragrance solutions to meet these evolving expectations.

Chemicals and cosmetics regulation
Fragrance materials are primarily regulated under China’s overarching chemical and cosmetics frameworks, including updates under the Measures for the Environmental Management of New Chemical Substances and the Cosmetic Supervision and Administration Regulation (CSAR). These frameworks continue to develop, with increased data requirements and safety evaluations for ingredients.

IFRA’s presence and engagement
IFRA works with local partners, industry stakeholders and authorities to share global best practices, offer technical insights, and support science-based decision-making. We aim to help ensure that fragrance regulation in China reflects both the country’s unique market context and the principles of safe, sustainable ingredient use.