A Product Information File (PIF) is a technical document that cosmetic businesses are required to establish and maintain according to the "Act for Control of Cosmetic Hygiene and Safety."
It records information such as the product's origin, formulation, manufacturing process, safety, and labeling.

 

"Supporting documentation for product quality,
the earliest concept originated in Europe, to fulfill commitments to consumers"

 

Why is a PIF needed?

1. Compliance with regulations
   From July 2024, some cosmetic products sold in Taiwan must have a PIF, and from July 2026, all cosmetic products must have a PIF.
   
   

2. To respond to inspections by competent authorities
   When the Ministry of Health and Welfare or local health bureaus conduct inspections, businesses must present the corresponding PIF for their products.
   
   

3. Enhance brand professional image
   Establishing complete product data helps with channel negotiations, consumer trust, and international alignment.

 

PIF Implementation Schedule (Three phases based on product category)

 

 

Who is responsible for preparing the PIF?

 

*Even if the product is outsourced for manufacturing, the brand must ensure that each product has a corresponding PIF for inspection.

Some businesses choose to directly collaborate with OEM/ODM manufacturers with experience in PIF preparation to expedite the PIF document creation process and ensure compliance with regulations.

 

How long should a PIF be retained?

The PIF must be retained for at least 5 years, calculated from the date the last batch of products was placed on the market, and must be made available for inspection by the competent authority at any time during this period.

*The PIF does not need to be submitted to the competent authority for pre-approval, but it must be retained for 5 years for inspection after the product is placed on the market, to be presented during government inspections.

 

A PIF is the identity card for every legally sold cosmetic product.
Having a complete PIF is not just about regulatory compliance, but also an embodiment of brand professionalism and responsibility.

 

Further reading:

A Complete Guide to PIF Content: Master all essential items and don't miss any details!

A Full Analysis of SA Personnel Qualification Certification

Does the PIF need to be updated when product changes occur? Understand common scenarios at once!

Besides SGS, who else can prepare a PIF? A comparison of three types of organizations and how brands should choose.

How is PIF pricing calculated? Understand the composition of formulation costs in one article.