Kaohsiung cosmetics factory probed for illegal production, date tampering, illicit profits

Authorities in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, are investigating a cosmetics factory, Qiying International Co., Ltd., for allegedly manufacturing and distributing unapproved fruit acid cosmetics. The investigation was prompted by a public complaint about severe facial burns following a chemical peel treatment.

Investigators discovered that Qiying International, lacking proper authorization, was producing a large quantity of unknown fruit acid cosmetics. The factory was equipped with raw materials, empty bottles, labeling machines, and sealing equipment, suggesting self-production and repackaging before sale to various medical institutions. The company faces fines of up to NT$5 million (approximately $150,000 USD) for unauthorized manufacturing, with an immediate order for product recall.

Further investigation by the prosecutor's office revealed that the company also tampered with product expiration dates. The owner, identified by the surname Yan, is suspected of aggravated fraud and obstructing industry. While prosecutors sought detention, the court granted bail at NT$800,000 (approximately $25,000 USD), with two others receiving bail and residential restrictions.

Evidence suggests that since 2007, Qiying International has not imported raw materials for a specific American brand of skincare products it previously distributed. Despite this, the company allegedly repackaged expired products and raw materials, relabeling them with new manufacturing and expiration dates before selling them to hospitals and clinics. Additionally, the company is accused of unauthorized manufacturing of similar products by Taiwanese and Italian factories, falsely marketing them as original imports. The estimated illegal profits from these activities exceed NT$26 million (approximately $800,000 USD).