Colombia Cosmetics Labeling Standards Update

Resolution 2540 modifies Resolution 2310, which is the Andean Technical Regulation on the labeling of cosmetic products applicable in all Andean Community countries, including Colombia. It adjusts definitions and labeling rules under Andean Decision 833, which sets harmonized requirements for cosmetics from member and third countries, to protect health and avoid misleading information.

Key change: complementary labels (stickers) 

The resolution redefines “etiqueta complementaria or sticker” as a means to clarify, adapt, or add information that complements the original label. For U.S. exporters, this confirms that key Colombian/Spanish requirements can be added through a sticker instead of redesigning the entire U.S. label, if the product still meets the definition of a cosmetic and does not violate Decision 833 as amended.

The new rules, which come into effect in December 2025, explicitly allow stickers to adapt, include, or clarify labeling information except for the batch number, which must appear on the original label or packaging. Importers using an existing Notificación Sanitaria Obligatoria (NSO) code may use a sticker to add their company details and, where applicable, the NSO code.

Mandatory label content on full-size packages 

The label must include at least: product name; a generic denomination that reflects the nature and function; cosmetic group (when applicable); brand (when applicable); name or corporate name of the NSO holder or importer; country of origin; nominal content (weight/volume/units); specific precautions and conditions of use required by international lists under Decision 833; batch number; NSO code and issuing country; full INCI ingredient list; expiry date or shelf life; use instructions (when applicable); storage conditions (when applicable); and manufacturer’s warnings and precautions (when applicable).

Small packages: minimum required data

For small containers where it is not physically possible to include all items listed above (numeral 5.1), the updated numeral 5.4 defines a reduced but mandatory set of information. In these cases, the label must at least show product name; generic denomination; name or corporate name of the NSO holder or importer; NSO code; nominal content (weight/volume); batch number; INCI ingredients that imply a health risk when required by Decision 833 lists; and expiry date or shelf life.

Language rules and Spanish translation

Resolution 2540 relaxes the previous obligation to translate the generic denomination of the product into Spanish in all cases. Under the new 5.6 numeral, only the information related to specific precautions, use instructions, storage conditions, and manufacturer warnings must be in Spanish, although they may also appear in other languages.

The generic denomination of the cosmetic does not require translation into Spanish when, in the original language, it is commonly used and widely understood in the Andean region for a specific category of cosmetic products with a clearly known function. However, if the national authority (INVIMA in Colombia) finds that the term is unclear or could mislead consumers about the identity, nature, or function of the product, it may require a Spanish translation.

Implementation 

Resolution 2310 and Resolution 2540 will enter into force on December 17, 2025.

This framework lowers some language-related trade barriers while keeping detailed labeling and traceability obligations, so U.S. exporters should work closely with their Colombian importers and distributors to prepare compliant Spanish stickers and ensure NSO notification covers both the original and complementary labels before products are distributed in Colombia.

For more information on the Cosmetics labeling standard, please contact Commercial Specialist Norcia Ward.