When the European Union banned animal testing for cosmetics in 2013, it was the most significant animal protection legislation in a generation. Since then, 40 countries have adopted similar bans. But the global picture remains uneven, and enforcement is inconsistent.
Where We Stand in 2025
The EU, UK, India, New Zealand, Norway, Israel, Guatemala, Iceland, South Korea and Taiwan have enacted full cosmetics testing bans. China — historically the largest market requiring animal-tested imports — has relaxed mandatory testing requirements for imported ordinary cosmetics, a significant shift.
The Unfinished Business
The United States does not have a federal ban. The Humane Cosmetics Act has been introduced in Congress multiple times but has not yet passed. Individual state legislation varies: California, Nevada and Virginia have enacted bans; most states have not.
What “Cruelty-Free” Actually Means
There is no legally standardised definition of “cruelty-free” in most jurisdictions. Certification from Leaping Bunny or PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies programme provides the most rigorous assurance. Look for these logos — and read the small print.