By Martina Kao    Photo：CANVA

Why Is Demand for Importing Personal Care Products into Taiwan Growing Rapidly?

Driven by rising global health awareness and post-pandemic shifts in consumer behavior, the demand for importing personal care products—such as hand soap, sanitizing sprays, and shampoos—continues to increase. In Taiwan, brands from Japan, Korea, and Europe enjoy high market acceptance. Major e-commerce platforms and department stores actively introduce international brands. With growing environmental consciousness and upgraded packaging trends, overseas companies are expanding into the Taiwan market, leading to more diversified and sophisticated logistics needs.

What Are Considered “Personal Care Products”? A Logistics and Customs Perspective

Based on our experience, commonly imported items include:

• Liquids: Shampoo, body wash, facial cleanser, hand sanitizers
• Spray-type: Deodorants, feminine hygiene sprays, fragrance mists
• Aerosol cans: Foaming cleansers, hair setting sprays (may be classified as hazardous)

These items must be classified with the correct HS Code based on their composition, physical properties, and packaging pressure. In some cases, an MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) is required to determine if the item falls under restricted import categories.

Key Regulations and Declarations Before Importing

1️ Medicinal vs. Non-Medicinal Classification

According to the Cosmetic Hygiene and Safety Act in Taiwan, "cosmetics" refer to substances applied, sprinkled, or sprayed on the human body (skin, hair, nails, oral cavity, etc.) for the purpose of cleansing, beautifying, or maintaining it.

Most personal care products without therapeutic claims are classified as general cosmetics, such as:

• Shampoo, body wash, facial cleanser
• Hand soap, bubble soap, moisturizers
• Deodorants, skincare lotions, feminine hygiene cleansers

All cosmetic products must carry a compliant Chinese label before entering the market, which includes:

• Product name and intended use
• Ingredients (listed in descending order; items over 1% must be specified)
• Directions and precautions
• Manufacturer’s name and address
• Importer’s information
• Expiry date or shelf life
• Batch number (Lot No.)

If the product is medicinal, it must comply with the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act, and the importer must provide:
(1) A copy of the pharmaceutical company license and a valid drug permit issued by the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW),
or
(2) An official letter of approval from the MOHW.

2️ Alcohol or Pressurized Products: Special Handling Required

If the product contains more than 24% ethanol, or is in a pressurized container, it may be classified as Dangerous Goods under the UN Number system and must follow packaging standards for air or ocean transport.

Alcohol-based items (commonly UN1170 / Ethanol / Class 3 Flammable Liquids):

• Products containing more than 24% ethanol are often categorized as hazardous.
• At over 70%, they are almost always classified under Class 3 and must comply with IATA/IMDG regulations.
• Example: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers, antibacterial sprays.

Aerosol containers (commonly UN1950 / Aerosols / Class 2.1):

• Regardless of alcohol content, all pressurized packaging must follow Dangerous Goods regulations.
• If flammable ingredients are present, the risk classification increases.

3️ Customs Inspections and Risk of Delays

Products with high alcohol content, incomplete labeling, or missing ingredient documentation are frequently flagged for inspection. We recommend preparing complete customs and compliance documentation before shipment.

Freight & Packaging Tips: Reduce Import Delays

• Prevent leaks and pressure issues: Liquid products are sensitive to altitude and pressure changes. Use triple-seal packaging (original packaging + plastic bag + outer carton) and leak-proof standards.
• Use accurate item names on customs documents: Avoid vague terms like "personal care product"—label according to contents and packaging to prevent misclassification.
• Choose the right mode: Ocean freight suits large, stable shipments; air freight is ideal for new product launches or seasonal restocking.

Common Mistakes and Practical Advice

• Failure to provide an MSDS for alcohol-based items may delay clearance.
• Incorrect HS Code classification may result in incorrect duties and customs disputes.

Choosing the Right Logistics Partner Makes All the Difference

As experienced freight forwarders, we've successfully assisted with the import of lotions, facial cleansers, and personal protective items (like face masks) into Taiwan. Each shipment requires a tailored approach based on product composition, quantity, mode of transport, and sales channels, ensuring full compliance and operational efficiency.

Successful importing isn’t just about customs clearance—it’s about strategic logistics planning and risk control. If you’re preparing to bring personal care products into Taiwan, our team is ready to help.

Contact us at: quote@tgl-group.net

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