The Korea Cosmetic Industry Institute has released Global Cosmetic Focus Issue No. 4, covering India and Indonesia, highlighting two major regulatory shifts that will impact K-beauty exporters and global brands. India's advertising watchdog has intensified scrutiny on influencer marketing, while Indonesia is set to enforce mandatory halal certification from October 2026. Overseas buyers and distributors should prepare for compliance changes that affect product claims, labeling, and market access.
India: ASCI Advertising Crackdown
India's Advertising Standards Council (ASCI) has flagged over 500 violations in the beauty and personal care sector between 2025 and January 2026. Common infractions include insufficient scientific evidence for efficacy claims, undisclosed paid sponsorships, and misuse of terms like 'natural' or 'Ayurvedic' without substantiation. The crackdown targets both local and global brands.
Impact on K-Beauty and Influencer Marketing
K-beauty products often promote skin improvement, whitening, anti-aging, and sun care benefits—claims that overlap heavily with ASCI's enforcement priorities. The institute warns that brands using influencer marketing in India must pre-check compliance. Contracts should mandate sponsorship disclosure, and internal procedures must verify post-publication adherence.
Indonesia: Halal Certification Mandate
Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority country, will require halal certification for cosmetics starting October 17, 2026. The Halal Product Assurance Agency (BPJPH) confirmed no further delays or grace periods at a March 2026 WTO forum. Products without certification must display a 'Non-Halal' label on packaging, risking distribution bans, certification revocation, or customs rejection.
Sourcing and Compliance Challenges
Ingredient verification is the most complex step in halal certification. Animal-derived components like collagen, glycerin, and certain fatty acids must prove halal processing, while alcohol-based substances face separate review. Certification typically takes 3 to 9 months. Brands yet to start the process should begin immediately to avoid market disruption.
What Buyers Should Watch
Both regulations impose real costs and operational changes. India's ASCI rules directly affect influencer marketing strategies, while Indonesia's halal mandate applies to all exporters regardless of local presence. Distributors and importers should audit product claims and ingredient sourcing now. The GCF report also includes Amazon.in top-seller analysis, expert interviews, and local buyer information—valuable for market entry planning.
Source: Read the original report | Published: June 14, 2026