Yes, a foreign manufacturer can apply for a cosmetic import license in India, but not directly. Under the Cosmetics Rules, 2020, the foreign manufacturer must appoint an authorized Indian agent or operate through an Indian subsidiary to file the application with CDSCO.
The authorized Indian agent submits Form COS-1 on behalf of the foreign manufacturer through the CDSCO SUGAM portal. After approval, CDSCO issues the Cosmetic Import Registration Certificate in Form COS-2, which legally permits the import and sale of cosmetic products in India.
👉 For a detailed explanation of eligibility, documentation, and the complete CDSCO Cosmetic Import approval process, refer to our pillar guide:
Cosmetic Import License in India: CDSCO COS-1 & COS-2 Guide