Cambodia Pushes Local Ingredient Use and Safety in Cosmetics, Soap Industry

Cambodia's Minister of Industry, Science, Technology, and Innovation has urged the domestic soap, lotion, and cosmetics sectors to strengthen the processing of local raw materials to increase the value of Khmer products, while also prioritizing high quality and safety for consumers. Minister Hem Vanndy emphasized that the development of the cosmetics sector should not solely focus on production and market expansion, but must begin with ensuring product quality and safety. He stated that manufacturers and distributors must bear a high degree of responsibility to ensure that products sold in the market have clear sources and have undergone proper standard inspections. Speaking at a forum attended by approximately 2,000 salon business operators nationwide, the Minister encouraged business owners and distributors to seek quality certificates, laboratory test reports, and relevant product safety information before distributing them, thereby reducing risks that could affect consumer health. Highlighting the potential of local raw materials that can be further processed to create high-value products, the Minister cited several Khmer products, such as soaps, lotions, and cosmetics, which are experiencing growth and could compete in the market if manufacturers can enhance their quality and standards. The Minister also urged for further research and development, encouraging business owners to collaborate with research institutions and laboratories to find new techniques for processing local raw materials, thereby increasing domestic production capacity and reducing reliance on imported products. According to the Minister, the Ministry of Industry is ready to facilitate and support the private sector in research, testing, and laboratory utilization to help domestic products achieve quality and safety, and gain greater recognition from consumers. From the forum, the Minister encouraged business owners to adopt modern technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) in their businesses to improve service efficiency and help customers make decisions more easily. Concurrently, he called on manufacturers, distributors, and consumers to support Khmer products. Manufacturers should adhere to quality standards, distributors should be responsible for their products, and consumers should help promote quality domestic products. The participation of all parties will help strengthen the potential of Cambodia's soap, lotion, and cosmetics sector and enable it to compete in the international market. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local