Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Turkey

Organized by the Union of Chambers and Commodity Exchanges of Türkiye (TOBB) Cosmetics and Hygiene Products Industry Council in cooperation with the Cosmetics and Hygiene Products Manufacturers Association (KTSD), the conference was held at TOBB.

The event addressed the impact of EU regulations affecting the cosmetics and Hygiene sectors, as well as sustainability and climate-related measures on the industry. 

In his speech at the event, Cengiz Günay, Member of the TOBB Board of Directors, stated that the event covered a wide range of valuable topics, from regulatory developments in Europe to important issues related to environmentally friendly products.

Hakkı Karabörklü, Director General of Product Safety and Inspection at the Ministry of Trade, also stated that sustainable innovation is directly related to product safety.

Noting that EU legislation has a dynamic structure, Karabörklü explained that legislation is constantly being updated in line with changing production technologies, climate targets, and digital transformation processes.

Karabörklü stated that acting in parallel with EU legislation is not only an obligation but also a strategic necessity in terms of the sustainability of exports and the protection of the country’s competitiveness. He said that to this end, they established the Green Deal Workgroup in 2021 and closely follow EU regulations.

Fatih Turan, Director General of Environmental Management at the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change, said that they viewed the conference not only as an opportunity to share information but also to remember shared responsibilities and deepen cooperation.

Pointing out that cosmetic and Hygiene products reach consumers directly, Turan explained that safe production, transparent information, and environmentally friendly practices are critical priorities in these areas.

- Advertising in cosmetic products

Avni Dilber, Director General of Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance at the Ministry of Trade, also explained the inspections they carry out against regulatory violations and the work of the Advertising Board.

Pointing out that advertisements must comply with fundamental principles such as accuracy and honesty, Dilber said that advertisements must also comply with cosmetic regulations.

Dilber noted that there are certain restrictions on cosmetic advertisements, stating:

“A cosmetic product should not be advertised as a cure for certain diseases. Even if such a statement is not made, if its effects are mentioned, they must be proven. If the statement is not prohibited, it must also be proven. On the other hand, the basic rule that applies to all advertisements and that we must all comply with is truthfulness and honesty. Here, if what you say is true and you can prove it with documents, there is no problem with advertising cosmetic and Hygiene products. If something is said in an advertisement that will not have an effect, we intervene and apply the necessary administrative sanctions.”