In the face of a series of cosmetic trade non-compliance, the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV) of the Ministry of Health has called for stepped-up inspections of cosmetic sales on e-commerce platforms and social media networks, including Facebook, TikTok, Zalo, and YouTube.

Authorities seize thousands of smuggled cosmetics sold on Facebook. Photos: Vietnam Directorate of Market Surveillance

The DAV has urged provincial and municipal health authorities to tighten control over the trade in cosmetic products.

Recent inspections have revealed several issues, such as companies operating from unregistered addresses and failing to notify the authorities when they change their production or business locations.

In addition, some manufacturers were found to have failed to comply with cosmetic manufacturing standards, to have produced and sold substandard products, and to have falsely advertised medicinal benefits.

Counterfeit cosmetics factory busted in Ho Chi Minh City.

Media reports have highlighted the rampant sale of illegal, counterfeit, or untraceable cosmetic products online - particularly on e-commerce sites and social media platforms. Many of these products are advertised with exaggerated claims that are inconsistent with their approved uses.

To better manage the cosmetics market and ensure consumer safety, the DAV has instructed relevant agencies to step up inspections and audits of cosmetics companies.

The DAV emphasized the importance of working closely with local authorities and other market regulators to strengthen controls on cosmetics sold online. This includes focusing on sales activities on platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Zalo and YouTube to quickly identify and address illegal operations, counterfeit products, unlicensed goods and misleading advertising.

The DAV also stressed the need for strict penalties for offenders, as well as the recall and destruction of all cosmetic products that do not have a clear origin or do not meet the quality standards.