About CTFA
	The South African cosmetic & toiletry industry is vibrant and dynamic, comprising of an interesting mix of multinational giants, local brand owners and small entrepreneurial companies. The industry is self-regulated, ascribes to high quality standards and is poised to make its mark in the international arena. The Cosmetic, Toiletry & Fragrance Association of South Africa (CTFA) was formed in 1994 to allow representation of the cosmetics industry by a single, focused body. The association represents and promotes the interests of its member companies, is an authoritative voice for the South African industry and actively articulates industry viewpoints to government departments. It continues to lead the industry forward with regard to settling and updating regulations and standards, and encourages responsible advertising. The CTFA advocates international harmonisation and recognition and has since 2000, been a member of COLIPA, the European Cosmetic, Toiletry & Fragrance Association, based in Brussels. Ensuring that South Africa is kept updated on cosmetics information worldwide. Membership is open to any company distributing or manufacturing cosmetics. Annual subscription fees are based on turnover. Companies associated with the cosmetics industry, but not directly involved in distribution or manufacture such as packaging and raw material suppliers, may become associate members. A new addition to the membership categories is Retail for the larger retail outlets. The cosmetic industry is a very well regulated industry in South Africa. CTFA member companies follow the South African Cosmetic Compendium with regard to Good Manufacturing Practice and Codes of Practice. South Africa follows the European regulations and ingredient annex’s to enable ease of exports and imports. Objectives Through effective industry & government consultation assist, advise and be responsible for industry self-regulation. To bring together cosmetic manufacturers, contract packers, importers, distributors, raw material suppliers and packaging companies in South Africa, in order to promote collaboration, common goals and understanding within the membership. To represent the industry in dealings with government and other authorities. To agree on regulations and standards to the benefit of the industry and the safety of consumers. To advocate international harmonisation and recognition. To improve trading and manufacturing conditions for the industry, both locally and in the export market. To be perceived by members as being a positive & proactive association that represents industry viewpoints and stimulates business development. To ensure members are kept up-dated and well informed about technical matters and key issues. To provide a forum for members to network, collaborate and work together for the benefit of the industry, thereby building a secure, progressive and viable industry. To provide ongoing communication to members of association work that is relevant to their business and the South African cosmetic industry in general. To provide members with advice and assistance in crisis situations. Benefits of the CTFA Monitor & keep updated on the Self Regulatory Control of cosmetics. Technical expertise and advice on ingredients, labelling, packaging. Publishing & distribution of the Cosmetic Compendium with all the Codes of Practice and requirements for composition, labelling, safety and advertising of cosmetic products in South Africa. Provide means for dissemination of the information on standards set up by working groups/committees. These working groups/committees consist of cosmetic industry experts. Seminars, conferences, workshops, information days, breakfasts, lectures, talks. Liaison with Government, Department of Health and the South African Bureau of Standards on product, raw material & packaging regulations. Liaison with the South African Revenue Services and Customs & Excise on Ad Valorem excise duty. Through extensive negotiations by the CTFA, Ad Valorem was reduced from 37.5% to 15% in 1997, then to10% a year later and 2.5% in 2000. Liaison with the Advertising Standards Authority of South Africa. Maintain relationships with and make representations to all and any appropriate South African and relevant international governments, legislative or other regulatory bodies, Chambers of Commerce or trade associations in regards to matters affecting the interests of the industry. The CTFA is a member of COLIPA & has representation on the ISO Cosmetics Committee. Issue of Certificates of Free Sale / Good Manufacturing Practices. Industry Statistics. Global Harmonisation CTFA is taking a active role in the world harmonisation of cosmetic products and has become a member of COLIPA, the European Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association, based in Brussels, thus ensuring that South Africa is kept entirely updated on cosmetic information worldwide.