Regulation · May 12, 2026

Exporting cosmetics to the U.S.: MoCRA changed the rules

The U.S. cosmetics market is enormous and clean Nordic beauty products sell. But the MoCRA law brought new obligations worth knowing before your first shipment.

What changed with MoCRA

For decades, U.S. cosmetics regulation was more lenient than Europe's. MoCRA changed the picture: it is now mandatory to register the manufacturing site with the FDA, to list products, to have an adverse-event monitoring system and a responsible person in the U.S. For a European producer most of this is familiar logic, because EU requirements are similar or stricter.

In practice this means that an Estonian producer who has kept their EU documentation in order can meet the MoCRA requirements with reasonable effort.

A market that rewards a story

The U.S. beauty consumer pays for a story: natural ingredients, Nordic origin and transparent production are stronger arguments there than at home. In customs data we see a steady flow of European cosmetics, and within it a growing share of niche brands driven by smaller specialized importers.

It is precisely these smaller importers who are the best door for an Estonian brand: they are constantly looking for new distinctive products and decide quickly.

Could your product sell in the USA?The first consultation is free: we show the real import numbers for your category and a few sample buyers.

Where to begin

Two parallel tracks: getting the MoCRA documentation in order and putting the right importers on the map. Our launch package helps with the first, our database with the second. If you have a brand that already works at home, the U.S. is the next logical step, and we help you take that step safely.

Let's talk about your export plan

The first consultation is free: together we'll see who in the US already buys your product and how to reach them.