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Can I change my EU Cosmetics Responsible Person, and what's the process?
I'm considering switching Responsible Persons due to service issues or cost. Can I change my EU Cosmetics Responsible Person, and what's the process? What are the implications for products already on the market?
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Asked by Lo H. Khamis
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Lo H. Khamis, Regulatory Experts
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## Can I Change My EU Cosmetics Responsible Person?
**Yes, you can change your EU Cosmetics RP**, but the process requires coordination. The new RP must be appointed before the previous one is terminated, and you must update CPNP notifications and ensure continuity of regulatory compliance.
### The Legal Framework
Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 allows manufacturers to change their Responsible Person, but the process must ensure continuity of regulatory compliance and proper notification to authorities.
### The Process
#### 1. **Appoint New RP First**
- Engage and contract with your new RP
- Ensure the new RP is ready to take over responsibilities
- Complete the written mandate with the new RP
#### 2. **Update CPNP Notifications**
- Transfer CPNP notifications to the new RP
- Update CPNP with new RP information
- Ensure all products are properly transferred
#### 3. **Coordinate Transition**
- Transfer Product Information Files (PIFs) to new RP (if applicable)
- Transfer ongoing SUE cases
- Update labeling and packaging with new RP information
- Ensure continuity of regulatory obligations
#### 4. **Terminate Previous RP**
- Provide proper notice to previous RP (per contract terms)
- Ensure all obligations are fulfilled
- Complete any outstanding regulatory activities
### Key Considerations
#### Market Continuity
Products can typically remain on the market during transition, but you must:
- Ensure regulatory obligations continue to be met
- Have a valid RP at all times
- Not have a gap in RP coverage
#### PIF Transfer
- Product Information Files must be accessible to new RP
- Ongoing SUE cases must be transferred
- Historical records may need to be retained
#### Labeling Updates
- All labeling must be updated with new RP information
- This includes primary packaging, secondary packaging, and accompanying documents
- Plan label print runs accordingly
#### CPNP Updates
- CPNP notifications must be updated with new RP information
- All products must be properly transferred in CPNP
- Ensure no gaps in CPNP coverage
#### Timeline
- Allow sufficient time for transition (typically 30-90 days)
- Coordinate with both old and new RPs
- Ensure no regulatory gaps
### Common Reasons for Changing RPs
Manufacturers change RPs for various reasons:
1. **Service Issues** - Poor responsiveness, lack of support
2. **Cost** - Pricing changes, budget constraints
3. **Strategic Reasons** - Geographic preferences, additional services needed
4. **Compliance Concerns** - Regulatory issues, quality problems
5. **Business Changes** - Company restructuring, new requirements
### Best Practices
1. **Plan Ahead** - Don't wait until the last minute
2. **Coordinate Carefully** - Ensure smooth handover
3. **Document Everything** - Keep records of the transition
4. **Update All Materials** - Ensure labeling and CPNP are updated promptly
5. **Maintain Compliance** - Never have a gap in RP coverage
### Red Flags
- ⚠️ New RP not ready to take over immediately
- ⚠️ Gap in RP coverage
- ⚠️ Incomplete PIF transfer
- ⚠️ Delayed labeling updates
- ⚠️ CPNP notifications not properly transferred
- ⚠️ Unclear transition timeline
### Next Steps
1. Plan your RP transition carefully
2. **[Compare EU Cosmetics Responsible Person providers & request quotes](https://cruxi.ai/regulatory-directories/cosmetics_rp)** - Find a new RP provider that meets your needs
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*Written by **Lo H. Khamis**, Regulatory Experts. [Connect on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lo-h-khamis) for regulatory guidance.*
### Official Sources:
- [Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 - Article 4](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32009R1223)