ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology has unanimously approved the Pakistan General Cosmetics Bill 2026, proposing up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to Rs5 million for the manufacture, sale and import of substandard cosmetics.
The committee meeting was held under the chairmanship of Senator Kamil Ali Agha to review the bill clause by clause.
The legislation had been referred back by the Senate during its October 14, 2026, sitting, along with amendments moved by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla.
The committee reviewed the provisions after consultations with relevant stakeholders, including representatives of the Pakistan Cosmetic Manufacturers Association.
During the meeting, the chairman sought details on the number of companies operating in the sector and their registration status with relevant departments, including the Directorate General of Trade Organizations, the Federal Board of Revenue, and the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan.
The committee also discussed amendments to the bill’s definitions to better represent domestic manufacturers and avoid unnecessary restrictions on emerging businesses. It accepted a revised definition intended to benefit local manufacturers and importers.
Members also deliberated on raw material imports, locally manufactured products, and the distribution of finished cosmetics before unanimously approving the bill with amendments.
The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen oversight of cosmetic products in Pakistan, including through the establishment of a special authority to monitor and prevent the manufacture, sale, and import of substandard and harmful cosmetics.
The Committee meeting was attended by the Federal Minister for Defence Production as Special Invitee, Minister for Science and Technology, along with the Secretary and other senior officials. Law Division legal team was also there to assist the committee.
