South Korean Hygiene Firms Pledge Transparency on Product Size Reductions

In a move aimed at bolstering consumer trust and transparency, eleven major South Korean manufacturers of hygiene products have pledged to proactively inform the public about any reductions in product size, weight, or quantity. This significant agreement, brokered by the Fair Trade Commission (FTC) in collaboration with the Korea Consumer Agency and the Korea Consumer-Centric Business Association, addresses growing concerns about "shrinkflation" – the practice of reducing product size while maintaining the price.

Participating companies, which include prominent names like LG Household & Health Care, Yuhan-Kimberly, and P&G Korea, will commit to providing consumers with at least three months' notice before implementing any changes that decrease product volume, specifications, weight, or count. This notification will be clearly displayed on product packaging or made available through online platforms and retail locations.

Crucially, this voluntary initiative goes beyond existing regulations. While current "unfair consumer transaction" guidelines mandate disclosure only for changes exceeding 5%, the signatory companies have agreed to voluntarily announce even smaller reductions. This commitment reflects a proactive approach to consumer protection and aims to foster a more open dialogue between businesses and consumers, particularly in a market where rising raw material costs have put pressure on pricing and product sizing.