ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Science and Technology on Tuesday reviewed proposed amendments to the Pakistan General Cosmetics Bill, 2026.

The committee stressed the need for effective regulation of cosmetic products, action against counterfeiting and safeguards against the misuse of regulatory powers.

The committee, chaired by Senator Kamil Ali Agha, examined the legislation after it was referred back by the Senate on Oct 14 for reconsideration of amendments moved by Senator Saleem Mandviwalla.

During the meeting at Parliament House, Mr Mandviwalla called for changes to address the growing problem of counterfeit cosmetics and strengthen the regulatory framework.

Industry representatives complain about difficulties due to counterfeit products

Representatives of the cosmetics sector told the committee that the industry had been operating for around 15 years but continued to face difficulties due to counterfeit products being sold under the names of established brands.

They said stronger regulation and enforcement were necessary to protect consumers and businesses operating legally.

Federal Minister for Defence Production Mohammad Raza Hayat Harraj briefed the committee on efforts to regulate

cosmetic products and address public health risks associated with unsafe and substandard items.

Minister for Science and Technology Khalid Hussain Magsi said legislation should be thoroughly examined before enactment, warning that impractical provisions could create difficulties during implementation.

The committee also reviewed the proposed composition of the board under Section 4 of the bill, including the appointment of its chairperson by the federal government and representation of relevant stakeholders and government organisations.

Mr Mandviwalla proposed adding two members to the eight-member board, including a senator and a representative of importers, to ensure broader participation in decision-making.

Members also examined Section 10, which deals with regulatory requirements, as well as provisions concerning the formulation of rules and safeguards against the possible misuse of powers.

They stressed that the legislation should clearly define implementation procedures and provide sufficient time for framing rules and facilitating registration under the proposed law.

The committee observed the bill should establish a transparent and workable regulatory system that curb counterfeit products, protect consumers from unsafe cosmetics and provides clear standards for legitimate businesses.

It decided to invite the Ministry of Law and Justice to the next meeting for further deliberations on the proposed amendments.

Published in Dawn, October 21st, 2026