In a powerful move to protect public health, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has taken firm action on two fronts — shutting down a secret illegal cosmetics warehouse in Najran and suspending a European pharmaceutical manufacturer over serious safety breaches.
1.5 Million Expired Cosmetic Products Seized in Najran
SFDA inspectors uncovered a hidden warehouse operating under the guise of a residential facility in Najran, where 1.5 million cosmetic products were being stored and distributed. These items had tampered expiration dates and violated national safety regulations, posing a significant risk to consumer health.
The case has been referred to the Public Prosecution for legal proceedings. According to Article 31 of Saudi Arabia’s Cosmetics Law, such offenses — including altering expiry dates or selling falsified products — can result in up to five years in prison, fines of SR5 million, or both.
“This type of fraud represents a serious threat to public safety and will not be tolerated,” the SFDA stated.
European Drug Factory Suspended Over GMP Violations
In a separate case, the SFDA suspended the registration of a European pharmaceutical manufacturer following an inspection that revealed major violations of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).
The inspection exposed severe lapses in production protocols, quality systems, and internal checks, raising red flags about the safety of drugs destined for the Saudi market. The suspension is considered a “precautionary measure” to prevent unsafe medicines from entering the Kingdom.
This inspection was part of SFDA’s Foreign Factory Oversight Program, which is aligned with international standards and involves detailed audits of manufacturing, quality control, and distribution systems.
Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Consumer Safety
The SFDA reaffirmed its dedication to cracking down on violators across all sectors under its jurisdiction. Whether it’s banning tobacco sales in grocery stores or arresting violators of public health laws, the authority continues to raise safety standards to protect consumers in Saudi Arabia.
Penalties Under Saudi Cosmetics Law
- Up to 5 years of imprisonment
- Fines of up to SR5 million
- Prosecution and shutdown of violating facilities
