Russia is systematically expanding the scope of the "Chestny Znak" (Honest Sign) mandatory labeling system. Significant updates came into force on October 1, 2023, affecting two major product categories: on one hand, the mandatory stage for perfumery and cosmetics is launching, and on the other, a voluntary experiment for home goods is commencing.
Key changes to the labeling system:
1. Voluntary Experiment for Home Goods
As of October 1, a free-of-charge experiment for labeling home goods has officially begun, scheduled for a long period—until August 31, 2026. The primary objectives of this stage are to test the system's operation and refine the technology for applying Control Identification Marks (CIZ) to various types of packaging and the goods themselves.
The list of product categories included in the experiment comprises:
The reason for including this category is the high level of illicit trade. According to a study by HSE University, the share of counterfeit products in this market segment reaches 26%, necessitating enhanced control.
2. Mandatory Labeling for Cosmetics and Household Chemicals
Concurrently with the home goods experiment, manufacturers and importers are required, as of October 1, to begin labeling a wide range of perfumery and cosmetic products. Goods now falling under the system include:
By the time the new rules took effect, the industry demonstrated a high level of readiness: over 50,000 market participants are already registered in the "Chestny Znak" system, including 6.7 thousand manufacturers and 4.8 thousand importers. The scale of the market is further indicated by the fact that even before the official start of the mandatory requirements, 55 million units of labeled products had been introduced into circulation.
Source
Photo: freepik
Key changes to the labeling system:
1. Voluntary Experiment for Home Goods
As of October 1, a free-of-charge experiment for labeling home goods has officially begun, scheduled for a long period—until August 31, 2026. The primary objectives of this stage are to test the system's operation and refine the technology for applying Control Identification Marks (CIZ) to various types of packaging and the goods themselves.
The list of product categories included in the experiment comprises:
- Tableware and kitchen utensils
- Cleaning products and supplies
- Interior and decorative items
The reason for including this category is the high level of illicit trade. According to a study by HSE University, the share of counterfeit products in this market segment reaches 26%, necessitating enhanced control.
2. Mandatory Labeling for Cosmetics and Household Chemicals
Concurrently with the home goods experiment, manufacturers and importers are required, as of October 1, to begin labeling a wide range of perfumery and cosmetic products. Goods now falling under the system include:
- Toothpastes and mouthwashes
- Face and hand creams
- Lipsticks and lip glosses
- Other hygiene and care products
By the time the new rules took effect, the industry demonstrated a high level of readiness: over 50,000 market participants are already registered in the "Chestny Znak" system, including 6.7 thousand manufacturers and 4.8 thousand importers. The scale of the market is further indicated by the fact that even before the official start of the mandatory requirements, 55 million units of labeled products had been introduced into circulation.
Source
Photo: freepik