Korean Cosmetics Association Hosts EU PPWR Response Seminar Amid Regulatory Changes

The Korea Cosmetics Association (KCA), led by Chairman Seo Kyung-bae, announced on July 9 that it will host a seminar titled 'Response to the EU PPWR in the Cosmetics Industry' at the FKI Conference Tower in Yeouido, Seoul. This initiative aims to enhance the practical response capabilities of the cosmetics sector to the European Union's Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU PPWR) as industries prepare for a phased implementation.

Starting August 12, certain provisions of the EU PPWR, including restrictions on harmful substances and heavy metals, will be enforced. As such, manufacturers exporting packaging materials to the EU will be required to prepare and retain a Declaration of Conformity (DoC) and Technical Document (TD), compelling Korean cosmetics companies to act swiftly to ensure compliance. This underscores the urgency for businesses to adapt their operational strategies in order to align with these new regulatory demands.

The seminar will feature Deloitte Netherlands' team, which will provide insights into the latest developments in the EU regulatory landscape. Deloitte’s Senior Director, Yeon Kyung-heum, will present strategies for the cosmetics industry to effectively navigate the EU PPWR. A practical workshop on the preparation of the DoC and TD, using a skincare tube product as a case study, will also be included, followed by a Q&A session to address industry concerns.

Key components of the seminar program will include updates on EU PPWR, response strategies for the cosmetics sector, and hands-on training for preparing the Declaration of Conformity (DoC) and Technical Document (TD). The event highlights proactive engagement within the industry to address emerging challenges.

Vice Chairman Yeon Jae-ho of the KCA acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding detailed implementation guidelines and subsequent legislation within the EU PPWR. He indicated that many businesses are finding it challenging to comply due to the lack of clear guidance. While he emphasized that the information provided by the association may not be definitive, it is intended to serve as a navigational tool for the cosmetics industry in its compliance preparations.

Additionally, the KCA has prepared a shared format that will remain subject to ongoing updates. It is suggested that companies review and customize the template according to their specific circumstances, positioning it as a foundational step for effective regulatory response efforts.

The seminar is open to stakeholders in the cosmetics industry, with no participation fee required. Interested parties must register in advance at (https://naver.me/G1pPBzwM) due to limited seating, ensuring a focused and engaged audience. Further details can also be checked on the association’s official website (https://kcia.or.kr/home/edu/edu_01.php?type=view&no=17710).