Bill 96 Cosmetics Canada

What Bill 96 Means for Cosmetic Brands in Canada

If your cosmetics brand is entering or already selling in Québec, Bill 96 Canada cosmetics compliance is something you can’t ignore. This new law; officially known as An Act respecting French, the official and common language of Québec—is reshaping how companies must package, market, and sell their products in this province.

In short? French isn’t just preferred. It’s the law.

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Why Is Bill 96 Important for Cosmetics?

Québec has always prioritized French, but Bill 96 raises the stakes. It affects everything from product labels to websites and even customer service. For cosmetic brands, this means revisiting your packaging, trademarks, digital content, and more, especially if your current materials are English-only.

Ignoring these rules can result in:

• Regulatory fines

• Product recalls

• Loss of shelf space

• Bad press and lost consumer trust

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What Does Bill 96 Require for Cosmetic Products?

Labeling in Canada is handled by the Consumer Packaging and Labelling Act, but Bill 96 is requiring more details. Let’s break it down. Here’s what you need to know if you’re selling beauty products in Québec.

1. Product Labels Must Be in French

Under Bill 96 Canada cosmetics rules, packaging must include French for:

• Product names

• Ingredient lists

• Directions for use

• Cautions and warnings

• Net content

• Claims and marketing terms (like “hydrating” or “anti-aging”)

Important: French must be as visible and legible as any other language. If you’re using English, French must match it—no fine print allowed.

2. Trademarked Names Are Not Always Exempt

Even if your brand name or slogan is trademarked, that’s not a guaranteed loophole anymore. Starting June 1, 2025, Bill 96 states that generic or descriptive English terms within a trademark must still be translated; unless you’ve officially registered the entire mark with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office (CIPO).

Not registered? Then you’ll need to include a permanent French sticker or tag.

3. Your Website Must Have a French Version

If your e-commerce site is accessible in Québec, it must offer full French parity. That means:

• Product descriptions

• Checkout process

• Customer support

• Return policies

• Marketing content

All of it must be available in French, and not via auto-translate or Google Translate widgets.

4. Advertising and Social Media

All advertising targeting Québec consumers—whether through social media, influencers, print, or retail materials—must include French language content that is equal or superior in prominence to English.

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What’s the Timeline?

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What Should Cosmetic Brands Do Now?

If you want to stay compliant (and keep your products on Québec shelves), here’s what to focus on:

1. Audit Your Packaging: Review every element of your label and start working with professional translators if needed.

2. Check Trademark Registrations: Secure official registrations if you want to preserve an English-only trademark.

3. Upgrade Your Website: Build a fully functional French version—not just a translated landing page.

4. Adapt Your Ads and Marketing: Everything from influencer captions to printed brochures must include French.

5. Train Your Customer Support Team: Ensure your team or partners can offer service in French to Québec customers.

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Final Thoughts

Bill 96 Canada cosmetics requirements aren’t just legal formalities; they reflect Québec’s deep cultural and linguistic identity. Brands that respect these rules are more likely to build trust and loyalty with Québec consumers.

At Cosmereg, we help cosmetic companies navigate these evolving Canada Cosmetic regulations, from label reviews to website localization. Whether you’re new to the Québec market or updating your compliance strategy before 2025, we’re here to assist.

Need help with Bill 96 compliance? Reach out to our team for a tailored consultation.