According to an article published on Lexocology.com, China may revise its cosmetics regulations which currently require animal testing on all cosmetics sold in China. And according to a Humane Society International (HSI) press release, the government also requires follow-up testing of products after they have gone on sale. The Chinese government says it is open to reviewing alternatives to animal testing and has invited industry representatives to review the regulation.

The Lexocology article states, “Humane Society International toxicology experts have prepared a report for the China Food and Drug Administration that highlights opportunities to reduce longstanding scientific and trade barriers.”

Companies, like Urban Decay and LUSH, are one such barrier, who pride themselves on a cruelty-free product. These companies have not been able to enter the Chinese market. Although Urban Decay did consider the issue, they ultimately decided not to follow through since the decision would alienate their current cruelty-free customer base.

Places such as the European Union, Israel and India have banned testing on cosmetic products and their ingredients, leading the way for other countries to do the same. Troy Seidle, HSI’s director of research and toxicology, said,  “The science of non-animal safety testing has come a long way in the 23 years since China’s regulation was enacted, inspiring a global shift away from cosmetics animal testing and towards sophisticated computer and human tissue techniques.”

Here in the U.S., companies decide whether or not to use animal testing. So vote with your dollar and choose cruelty-free! 

Image Source: Understanding Animal Research/Flickr