Dear Members and Esteemed Colleagues,

It has been a remarkable journey for the Association—one marked by resilience, strategic progress, and collective determination.

Despite the constraints we faced, we refused to let limited resources define our ambitions. Together, we secured a permanent address and venue for in-person meetings, digitalized our operations, and successfully co-launched Singapore’s first-ever CTFAS-SP Specialist Diploma in Specialty Chemicals (Personal Care Product Development). Set to commence in July 2025 at Singapore Polytechnic, this industry-endorsed and government-supported micro-credential programme embodies our commitment to advancing the Singapore and ASEAN Beauty and Personal Care (BPC) industry through sustainable, life-wide, and life-long professional education. In addition, recognizing the vital role of soft skills, we proudly introduced a suite of e-training courses in collaboration with the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).

Beyond Singapore, our regional presence continues to grow. The ASEAN Cosmetic Association (ACA) has invited us to spearhead the development of high-quality training programs accessible to industry professionals across ASEAN, including those from FMM-MTIG, CCIP, PERKOSMI, TCMA, MYCA, and VOCA. Given our deep expertise in training and upskilling, we gladly stepped forward to lead this initiative.

At home, we have tapped into the invaluable resources of the Singapore Business Federation’s Trade Association and Chambers’ division, supporting the ongoing professional development of our first-ever permanent Administrative Executive while fostering strategic partnerships. On the ESG front, promising collaborations are underway with the Singapore Environment Council, Singapore Polytechnic’s Centre for Environmental Sustainability & Energy Efficiency, the Singapore National Environmental Agency, and RSM-Stoneforest.

However, we recognize the formidable regulatory shifts that continue to shape our industry. In response, we maintain constructive engagement with the Singapore Health Sciences Authority (HSA), a WHO-Listed Authority (WLA) globally recognized for its advanced regulatory framework. Furthermore, we had the privilege of hosting a delegation from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), facilitating valuable exchanges on the evolving landscape of the BPC sector in both countries.

Looking ahead, we remain committed to strengthening our ties with key stakeholders—including Enterprise Singapore, Singapore Polytechnic’s CCTC, A*STAR, and like-minded institutions across China, Japan, the EU, and ANZ.

I wish to extend my deepest gratitude and respect to my colleagues who have served alongside me during this term. Your dedication, expertise, and generosity of spirit have been instrumental in advancing our shared vision.

The incoming Management Committee and Working Groups will undoubtedly take on even greater responsibilities. I encourage each of you to step forward with renewed vigor as we continue this exciting journey together.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Andrew GAN,
President
The Cosmetic, Toiletry & Fragrance Association of Singapore (CTFAS)