The Korea Cosmetic Industry Institute has released its Global Cosmetic Focus Issue No. 5, covering Australia and Vietnam, signaling critical regulatory shifts for K-beauty exporters. Australia is overhauling sunscreen rules after a consumer watchdog found 16 of 20 tested products fell short of labeled SPF values, while Vietnam is set to enforce stricter cosmetic management laws from July 1, 2026. These changes directly impact overseas buyers sourcing from South Korea, demanding updated compliance and testing protocols.
## Australia SPF regulatory overhaul
Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) launched public consultation on March 26, 2026, to reform sunscreen regulations following the 'Sunscreen Gate' scandal. Consumer group CHOICE tested 20 commercial sunscreens and found 16 failed to meet their stated SPF levels. The proposed changes include mandatory disclosure of SPF test data when listing on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), allowing both in vivo and in vitro testing methods, and shifting to a low/medium/high SPF rating system.
## Vietnam cosmetic law amendment
Vietnam's Ministry of Health published a draft amendment to the Cosmetic Management Decree in February 2026, targeting implementation by July 1, 2026. Key requirements include mandatory submission of manufacturing compliance certificates (CGMP or ISO 22716) for imported cosmetics, shortening the validity period of product notifications from five to three years, and compulsory maintenance of Product Information Files (PIF). High-risk products—whitening agents, sunscreens, and items for children or pregnant women—must submit samples to independent labs within 30 days of market launch.
## Packaging and extended producer responsibility
Both markets are tightening packaging regulations. Australia is moving toward mandatory producer responsibility for packaging circular economy compliance. Vietnam integrated its Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system from May 25, 2026, classifying food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical packaging under strict recycling obligations. Korean exporters must verify annual revenue thresholds for exemptions and clarify liability with local distribution partners during contract negotiations.
## What buyers should watch
Overseas importers and distributors sourcing from South Korea should ensure their suppliers have independent SPF verification data for the Australian market and CGMP or ISO 22716 certification for Vietnam. The shortened notification validity in Vietnam means more frequent renewal cycles. High-risk product categories like sunscreens and whitening creams face intensified scrutiny. Buyers should also review packaging recycling compliance under both countries' EPR frameworks to avoid supply chain disruptions.