WTO Circulates Notification of Tanzania’s Draft Standard on Liquid Toilet Soap

"On April 30, 2025, the World Trade Organization (WTO) circulated a notification regarding Tanzania’s Draft Standard CDC 2 (3558) DTZS titled Liquid Toilet Soap – Specification, Second Edition. This draft standard specifies the requirements, sampling methods, and testing procedures for liquid toilet soap intended for personal hygiene. Key Sections Contained in the Draft Standard: 1.Scope 2.Definition 3.Requirements: (a) General Requirements: -Product shall be in liquid or emulsion form. -May be opaque or transparent, coloured or colourless, perfumed or unperfumed. -Must have uniform consistency, free from sediments and suspended particles. -Should be easily spreadable, with good lathering and rinsing properties. -Must be non-toxic and non-skin irritant. -May contain up to 2% synthetic detergents. -All ingredients must comply with TZS 638 (all parts). (b) Specific Requirements: -The total fatty matter content shall be a minimum percentage by mass, and its determination shall be carried out in accordance with TZS 1396-6 / ISO 685. -The pH of the soap at a temperature of 27 ± 2°C shall be determined using the method described in Annex A. -The percentage by mass of matter insoluble in ethanol shall not exceed the specified maximum limit and shall be tested according to TZS 1396-3 / ISO 673. -The content of synthetic detergents shall not exceed the specified maximum percentage by mass and shall be tested using the procedure outlined in TZS 677 / ISO 2271. -The amount of total free alkali, calculated as Na₂O or K₂O, shall not exceed the maximum allowed percentage by mass, and shall be tested according to TZS 1396-12 / ISO 68. -The maximum allowable number of microorganisms present in the soap shall be as specified in the standard, and the test shall be conducted as per the method provided in Annex B. 4. Packaging and Labelling: Packaging: -Soap shall be packed in strong containers that can withstand normal usage and transport. Labelling: -Must be in English, Kiswahili, or any other agreed language. -Required details include: -Name and address of manufacturer (including country of origin) -The words “Liquid toilet soap” -Brand name or registered trademark, if any -Net volume (ml) -Batch identification mark -Date of manufacture -Best before date -Instructions for use, if needed 5.Sampling: General requirements to ensure sample integrity and prevent contamination: -Samples to be drawn in a clean, dry environment, free from damp, dust, or soot. -Use of a clean and dry sampling tube. -Samples placed in clean, dry, air-tight containers. -Sampling tools and containers must be sterilized. -Samples must be protected from adventitious contamination and stored to maintain original quality. -Sampling to be done under aseptic conditions. 5. Annex A – Determination of pH and Annex B – Microbiological Examination Final Date for Comment is 60 days from the notification (i.e. on June 29, 2025) "