In Brief: Japan cosmetics deregulation

Japan cosmetics deregulation: Japanese cosmetics control study group plans to submit a proposal to the country's Ministry of Health and Welfare by the end of 1997 with recommendations on how to "overhaul" Japan's cosmetics regulatory system, according to the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association. According to an "interim report" from the committee's March 31 meeting, policies that are being considered as part of the deregulatory process include replacing Japan's "positive list" of ingredients with a "negative list," harmonizing product labeling requirements with EU and U.S. regs, and reconfiguring permit procedures. Formed in December, the 15-member group is made up of educators, physicians, consumers, reporters and industry reps from Japan, the U.S. and Europe. CTFA is organizing a U.S. task force to work alongside the Japan-based committee. CTFA's group, which will comprise roughly 20 members, will hold its first meeting April 29...