A clearing agent for cosmetics distributors has to get one classification question right before anything else: is your product a cosmetic, or does its labelling make medicinal claims? That single call decides whether you’re dealing with KEBS notification or full Pharmacy and Poisons Board registration. Add excise stamps, labelling standards and counterfeit risk, and cosmetics become one of the more demanding categories for a distributor.

The Classification Fork: Cosmetic or Medicinal?

Products claiming to cleanse, moisturise or change appearance are generally cosmetics handled through KEBS. Products claiming to treat a condition, or containing pharmacologically active ingredients, can cross into PPB territory. The same formulation can fall either side depending on its label and marketing, as our cosmetics guide explains. Check claims on packaging before you order, not at the port.

Labelling and Quantity Declarations

Cosmetics must follow the Kenyan labelling standard, with ingredients listed using standard nomenclature, manufacturer details and truthful claims. Net quantity must be declared accurately in metric units; packaging that doesn’t comply can be refused, as covered in our weights and measures guide. Ask suppliers to supply compliant artwork before production.

Excise Stamps Apply to Cosmetics

In April 2023, Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) planned to require excise stamps on cosmetics under specified tariff headings and only licensed importers would obtain them, so licensing must precede the shipment. However, the full implementation was postponed following stakeholder consultations. Read our excise stamps guide and confirm the headings that would apply to your range.

Banned Ingredients and Counterfeits

Mercury-containing cosmetics are prohibited, and skin-lightening products are an enforcement focus, so verify formulations rather than relying on supplier assurances; see our prohibited and restricted goods guide. Counterfeit cosmetics are a health risk and a priority for the Anti-Counterfeit Authority, so keep brand authorisation letters and distributor agreements on file.

Optional Credentials and Packaging Obligations

Halal certification can open Gulf and Muslim-majority markets if you re-export; see our halal certification guide. Packaging for hazardous or chemical-based products can carry EPR obligations. Plan for both when you budget.

Documentation Pack for Cosmetics Imports

Itemised invoice with product names, formulations and quantities
Ingredient lists and safety information
KEBS notification or PPB registration evidence, as applicable
Certificate of Conformity and Import Standardization Mark details; see our KEBS marks guide
Certificate of Origin, export declaration document and Advance Cargo Declaration reference
Local marine cargo insurance certificate

Working With Clearon Logistics for Cosmetics Distributors

We confirm the regulatory pathway for each product, check labels against requirements, and make every documentation is in place before shipment.

Importing cosmetics or personal care products for distribution? Talk to Clearon Logistics with your product list, and we’ll confirm the pathway for each line.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all cosmetics need PPB registration? No. General cosmetics generally go through KEBS, while products making medicinal claims or containing active ingredients can need PPB registration.

Do cosmetics need excise stamps? KRA has since halted it’s plan to have excise stamps on cosmetics under specified tariff headings. However, this might change in future.

Can a label change a product’s regulatory category? Yes. The claims on packaging can move the same formulation between categories.

Are any cosmetic ingredients banned? Mercury-containing cosmetics are prohibited, so verify formulations carefully.