“In simplifying the rules on cosmetics, we must maintain high health standards. Simplification does not mean deregulation. The safety of consumers and trust in European rules are not negotiable, especially when it comes to products that are used on a daily basis.” The event was co-organised with Greek MEP Dimitris Tsiodras.

Representatives of the European Commission, experts, NGOs and industry took part in the talks. The main focus was on how less red tape can be achieved without compromising people’s health and high European standards.

As rapporteur of the S&D Group on the dossier, Vigenin stressed that the aim of simplification should be more effective enforcement of the rules, not weakening consumer protection.

The MEP also emphasized the particular importance of the topic for Bulgaria, which is among the main European producers of essential oils – a strategic raw material for the cosmetics and perfume industry. In his words, the decisions taken in Brussels directly affect Bulgarian producers and processors of essential oils, as this is the livelihood of entire regions and many small and medium-sized enterprises. He noted that all these rules directly affect the competitiveness of Bulgarian products on the European and world markets.

“European rules need to be clear and predictable so that they encourage innovation and production in the EU without weakening health protection,“ Kristian Vigenin stressed.

The MEP said that serious work was to be done in the European Parliament to ensure that the reforms would be in favour of the citizens and in support of the European producers, including the Bulgarian ones. The legislative package will be voted on at a joint meeting of the Environment, Climate and Food Safety Committee and the Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee in March.