Benin: Cosmetics and dietary supplements on the agenda for SEPHARM 2026

From September 22 to 24, 2026, Beninese pharmacists will dedicate their professional week to the supply chain of products that extend beyond mere medications, including cosmetics, medical devices, and dietary supplements.

The National Order of Pharmacists of Benin has selected this theme for SEPHARM 2026, which will be held successively in Cotonou, Abomey, and Parakou. The sessions are expected to bring together licensed pharmacists, assistants, officials, students, and external professionals to master these distribution channels.

The topic directly relates to the beauty and wellness sector. The Beninese Agency for Medicines and Other Health Products is responsible for market surveillance, quality control, and vigilance regarding health products. The government reiterated these responsibilities during the establishment of ABMed in its current form.

This oversight has already had very concrete effects on the cosmetics market. In May 2026, ABMed banned twelve skin-lightening products in Benin, including Epiderm Cream, Dermaclair, Movate, Caro Light, Fair & White, and Skin Light, citing the presence of prohibited hazardous substances.

The agency also allows consumers to report a health product by providing its name, the relevant laboratory, and their observations. This option complements the prior quality control work conducted on the quality and circulation of products.

SEPHARM 2026 is open to pharmacists, students, and other professionals authorized to participate in the scientific sessions. The pass announced by the National Order of Pharmacists is set at 20,000 FCFA for the entire program.

The Cotonou session is scheduled for September 22 for the Littoral, Atlantic, and Ouémé-Plateau regions, the Abomey session on September 23 for the Zou-Collines and Mono-Couffo regions, and the Parakou session on September 24 for the Atacora-Donga and Borgou-Alibori regions.