Bandung, Indonesia Sentinel — Indonesia’s National Agency of Drug and Food Control (BPOM RI) has temporarily suspended the operations of a skincare manufacturing company in Bandung.
The company is suspected of being part of a network distributing illegal “blue-label” skincare products. These products have been banned due to the presence of harmful ingredients, including mercury and hydroquinone, which can cause skin irritation and pose long-term cancer risks.
BPOM RI cited repeated violations in the production processes at the facility, raising concerns over product safety. The sanctions imposed include the temporary suspension of both production and distribution activities, as well as the closure of the company’s access to submit notifications for product registration.
“The sanctions will be in place for 30 working days, or until corrective and preventive actions have been satisfactorily implemented,” BPOM stated in an official release on Saturday, October 12, as reported by Detik.
BPOM is continuing its investigation into the matter, aiming to ensure that any legal violations are addressed. “If we find evidence of criminal conduct, we will pursue legal proceedings, while upholding the principle of presumption of innocence,” the agency added.
Criminal Penalties for Violations
The potential criminal penalties for producing or distributing blue-label cosmetics are outlined in Article 435 of Indonesia’s Health Law No. 17 of 2023. Violators can face up to 12 years in prison or fines of up to Rp5 billion ($320,000).
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“BPOM has taken various measures to handle violations in the production and distribution of cosmetics, including intensifying oversight, enforcing the law, and providing technical guidance to business operators and medical professionals,” BPOM said.
It also emphasized public education efforts, which include a national awareness campaign in collaboration with multiple sectors.
Allegations of Insider Involvement
There have been allegations that the illegal skincare operation may have involved insiders at BPOM RI. However, the agency strongly denied these claims, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its product oversight.
“BPOM is committed to preserving its integrity and will take strict action against anyone found to be involved in violations related to cosmetic production and distribution,” the agency emphasized.
BPOM’s ongoing crackdown on illegal cosmetics aims to safeguard public health while ensuring that the industry operates under legal and ethical standards.
(Raidi/Agung)
