A bill which proposed to regulate and test sunscreen in New Zealand has been taken off the table. 

The Sunscreen (Product Safety Standard) Bill, pulled from this week’s ballot, highlights the need for better regulation and could provide an opportunity to make sunscreen testing mandatory, Consumer NZ says.

According to Cancer Society NZ, Skin cancer is the most common cancer in New Zealand. Along with Australia, we have the highest melanoma rates in the world. Around 500 New Zealanders die of skin cancer every year. 

The private member’s bill was put forward by National MP Todd Muller. The bill will have to pass three readings in the House before it becomes law.

Sunscreen is currently classified as a cosmetic. Manufacturers aren’t required to regularly test these products and the sunscreen standard is voluntary. 

In Consumer NZ's 2020 sunscreen test, five of 10 products didn’t meet their SPF label claim. 

Two of those also failed to meet the requirements for broad-spectrum protection.

In Australia, sunscreen is subject to a mandatory standard and regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration.

"New Zealand has one of the highest rates of skin cancer and melanoma. Kiwi consumers should be able to buy sunscreens knowing the products have been tested and meet their SPF label claims," Consumer NZ chief executive Jon Duffy said.

In 2019, Consumer NZ wrote to the then Minister of Health urging for priority to be given to a mandatory sunscreen standard.

"Whether progress is made through a private member’s bill or through other regulation, it’s time for action. Regulation will need to include requirements for regular testing, so manufacturers can’t rely on historical tests.” 

Read the Consumer NZ sunscreen report.

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