Colombian Government Steps Up Enforcement Of Ban On Animal Testing For Cosmetics

The Colombian government is rolling out coordinated campaigns to raise awareness of Law 2047 of 2020, passed during the previous administration, which prohibits the testing, importation, exportation, manufacturing, and commercialization of cosmetic products or ingredients that have been tested on animals. The initiative is being led by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Tourism (MinCIT) and the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology (MinTIC), with support from private sector companies.

The ministries are organizing working groups aimed at identifying effective methods to disseminate information about the law, which went into effect in 2020. These efforts will include collaboration with private enterprises to ensure broader understanding and compliance with the legislation.

Focus on Law Compliance and Alternatives

The primary goal of these campaigns is to make both the public and private sectors more aware of the legal requirements regarding animal testing in the cosmetics industry. To date, MinCIT and MinTIC have begun distributing this information through various media channels.

In parallel, the government is developing incentives to encourage the adoption of alternative testing models. The Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation has announced funding for research into alternatives, with scholarships available annually over the next 15 years.

Exceptions to the Ban

The law outlines two exceptions where animal testing may still be permitted. These include cases where an ingredient must undergo safety testing due to health or environmental risks and no alternative methods are available, and when animal testing has been conducted for purposes unrelated to cosmetic use.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Companies or individuals found violating the law will face penalties imposed by the National Institute for Food and Drug Surveillance (Invima). Fines range from 133 to 50,000 times the Colombian minimum monthly wage.

The government’s efforts are aimed at fostering innovation in the cosmetics industry, encouraging businesses to move away from conventional testing methods, while offering support to those that comply with the new regulations.

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