RAJSHAHI, March 28, (V7N) — A booming trade in adulterated and counterfeit cosmetics has resurfaced in Puthia upazila of Rajshahi, despite an official directive from the Prime Minister’s Office nearly eight years ago ordering their closure.
Factories reopen despite ban

Local reports indicate that about a dozen factories producing fake creams and skin‑whitening products under the guise of famous domestic and foreign brands are operating openly. These include names such as Modern Herbal, Ruposhi Gold, Madonna Spot Cream, Challenger Herbal, Digital Herbal, Seena Spot Cream, Romanch Herbal, Diamond Spot Cream, Jheelik Salison, Lous Star Gold, Icon Herbal, Lucky Seven Spot Cream, and Jyoti Beauty Herbal.

The 2017 circular (Ref. No. 03.079.016.04.00.26.2016‑534 (4)) instructed the Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner and local UNOs to shut down these factories. However, locals allege that police, upazila administration, and political leaders have shielded the operators, allowing them to continue production and distribution nationwide, including to Dhaka’s beauty parlors and shops.
Dangerous ingredients, fake branding

Factory owners reportedly collect branded creams such as Fair & Lovely, Remy Spot Cream, Tibet Snow, and then mix harmful chemicals including Stillman, Tearic Acid, Isopropyl, Myristate, Spirit, RC, and plain water to produce adulterated cosmetics. These are packaged attractively and marketed through courier services and fake advertisements.

Dermatologist Dr. Mahmuda Hossain warned that such mixtures can cause severe skin damage and even fatal diseases like cancer, urging consumers to avoid spot and color‑lightening creams from unverified herbal companies.
Administration response

When contacted, Puthia Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Liakat Salman said he was unaware of the earlier directive but assured that legal action will be taken soon against factories producing fake cosmetics.

Meanwhile, public frustration is mounting as buyers suffer both financially and physically from these products, while the number of illegal factories continues to grow.

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