Cargo Bridge Import Insights

Before importing K-beauty products into the United States, one question should be asked early: Does the manufacturer have an FEI? FEI means FDA Establishment Identifier. It is an identifying number used by FDA for facilities. Under MoCRA, many cosmetic product facilities must register with FDA. FDA has stated that it intends to use the FEI as the required facility registration number. For importers, this matters because the FEI can help confirm that the supplier is prepared for the U.S. market. This does not mean the importer should blindly accept any number from a supplier. Importers should ask: 1. What is the manufacturer’s legal facility name? 2. What is the physical manufacturing address? 3. Does the facility have an FEI? 4. Has the facility completed FDA cosmetic facility registration if required? 5. When is the facility registration renewal date? 6. Does the supplier understand U.S. cosmetic product listing requirements? 7. Who is responsible for the product listing and label inf...

 K-beauty is growing fast in the U.S., but importing cosmetics is not the same as importing regular general merchandise. One of the biggest changes importers need to understand is MoCRA. MoCRA stands for the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act. It expanded FDA oversight of cosmetics and created new compliance responsibilities for the cosmetics industry. For importers, the main point is simple: Do not treat cosmetics like ordinary cargo. Before a K-beauty shipment moves, importers should ask basic questions: 1. Is the Korean manufacturer registered with FDA if registration is required? 2. Does the facility have an FDA Establishment Identifier, also called an FEI? 3. Has the cosmetic product been listed with FDA if listing is required? 4. Who is the “responsible person” listed on the product label? 5. Are the ingredients properly documented? 6. Are labels and product claims being reviewed? 7. Does the broker have enough information before entry? This matters because a shipment ...