Colombia takes a big step forward towards banning animal testing

The bill has been initiated by member of parliament Juan Carlos Losada would also mean that newly animal-tested cosmetics, including imported products, would be banned within a year of the bill’s adoption.

Now that the bill has been approved it will be transferred to the Senate, where it will be debated in committee hearings and on the floor of the House – the final procedures before it can be enacted as law.

Cruelty Free International ​

Animal rights organization Cruelty Free International has also played an important part in both raising awareness about animal cruelty in Colombia, and getting this bill through government.

“Sincere congratulations to Honorable Losada and every success for the next stage of this bill,” said ​Kerry Postlewhite, Director of Public Affairs for Cruelty Free International.

“People around the world are now clear that the use of animals in cosmetics testing must stop everywhere and forever. We very much hope that Colombia will very soon join the growing list of countries taking action, bringing us closer to closing the door globally on this cruel and unnecessary practice.”​

Colombia to join Chile as cruelty-free​

Colombia’s efforts to ban animal testing in cosmetics are pioneering in Latin America, and it now joins  Chile on the list of countries in the region that are currently considering implementing a government ban.

Last year a poll conducted by Cadem Consultancy on consumers in Chile showed that 78% of respondents were opposed to the use of animals for testing on cosmetics and personal care products.

The poll also revealed that an eye-opening 86% of respondents thought that a ban on animal testing for cosmetics should be implemented in the country, in line with all countries in the EU, India, New Zealand and Israel, a total of 37 countries where a total band has already been implemented.