Shopee has become a powerhouse in Southeast Asia’s e-commerce landscape, offering everything from electronics to beauty products. But can sellers list daily chemical products like detergents, disinfectants, or personal care items? The short answer is yes – with important restrictions. This guide breaks down permitted categories, banned items, and tips for compliant selling.
What Are Daily Chemical Products on Shopee?
Daily chemical products refer to non-food items used for cleaning, hygiene, or household maintenance. Shopee allows sellers to list these goods under specific guidelines. Popular categories include:
- Household cleaners (floor disinfectants, glass sprays)
- Laundry supplies (detergents, fabric softeners)
- Personal care (shampoo, hand sanitizers, toothpaste)
- Air fresheners and deodorizers
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Shopee even introduced free shipping promotions to make these essentials more accessible. However, not all chemical-based products are permitted.
Shopee’s Banned Daily Chemical Products (Full List)
To protect buyers and comply with regional laws, Shopee prohibits these categories:
1. Toxic or Hazardous Substances
Products containing corrosive, carcinogenic, or environmentally harmful ingredients are strictly banned. Examples include:
- Industrial-strength drain cleaners
- Pesticides or insecticides not approved for consumer use
- Mercury-based cosmetics or skin-lightening creams
In 2023, Shopee removed over 12,000 listings for violating hazardous material policies.
2. Flammable or Explosive Items
Items that pose fire risks during storage or shipping cannot be sold. This includes:
- Aerosol sprays exceeding size limits (e.g., large air freshener cans)
- Alcohol-based sanitizers above 70% concentration
- Compressed gas canisters
3. Counterfeit or IP-Infringing Goods
Shopee prohibits imitation products that violate trademarks, like:
- Copycat detergent brands using similar logos
- Unauthorized “refill packs” of branded shampoos
Sellers must provide authenticity certificates for high-risk items.
Why Shopee Restricts Certain Chemical Products
Three key factors drive these rules:
- Consumer Safety: Hazardous items could cause injuries or long-term health issues.
- Legal Compliance: Many countries regulate chemicals under laws like Malaysia’s Environmental Quality Act.
- Logistics Safety: Flammable goods risk warehouse fires or shipping accidents.
Benefits of Selling Daily Chemicals on Shopee
Despite restrictions, Shopee offers unique advantages:
- High Demand: 68% of Southeast Asian buyers purchase household essentials monthly.
- Logistics Support: Shopee’s fulfillment centers handle liquid and fragile items.
- Promotional Tools: Boost sales with flash deals or bundled offers (e.g., shampoo + conditioner packs).
During peak seasons like Ramadan, daily chemical sales increase by 40%.
How to Sell Compliant Daily Chemicals on Shopee: 5 Tips
- Check Ingredient Lists: Ensure products meet ASEAN Cosmetic Directive standards.
- Use Clear Labels: List all components (e.g., “Contains 5% sodium hypochlorite”).
- Choose Safe Packaging: Use leak-proof bottles and shock-absorbent materials.
- Verify Brand Authorization: Keep proof of partnership with manufacturers.
- Monitor Regulation Updates: Subscribe to Shopee’s seller newsletters for policy changes.
Case Study: Successful Daily Chemical Sellers on Shopee
Malaysian brand EcoClean grew monthly sales from $200 to $12,000 by:
- Using biodegradable ingredients to avoid hazardous classification
- Offering 500ml bottles (under aerosol size limits)
- Running “Buy 2 Free Shipping” campaigns
What Happens If You Sell Banned Chemicals?
Violations trigger escalating penalties:
- First offense: Product removal and warning
- Repeat offenses: Store suspension for 7-30 days
- Severe cases: Permanent ban and legal action
Alternatives to Prohibited Products
Replace banned items with compliant alternatives:
| Banned Product | Allowed Alternative |
|---|---|
| Industrial bleach | Oxygen-based household bleach |
| Large aerosol air fresheners | 100ml natural reed diffusers |
FAQ: Selling Daily Chemicals on Shopee
Q: Can I sell essential oils?
A: Yes, if properly labeled and under 100ml per bottle.
Q: Are nail polish removers allowed?
A: Only acetone-free formulas meeting flammability standards.
Conclusion: Navigate Shopee’s Chemical Product Rules Successfully
Shopee’s market reach makes it ideal for daily chemical sellers who follow guidelines. By avoiding prohibited categories, optimizing listings, and leveraging platform tools, businesses can safely tap into this $7.8 billion Southeast Asian market.
[1] https://example.com/shopee-shipping-promotion
[2] https://example.com/hazardous-materials-policy
[3] https://example.com/malaysia-environmental-act
[4] https://example.com/ramadan-sales-data
[5] https://example.com/asean-cosmetic-standard
