-The Truth About Animal Testing and Japanese Companies-

While the World Moves Toward a Ban, Japan Lags Behind

Major companies like Kao, Lion, and P&G Japan have yet to fully abolish animal testing for their products and ingredients.

It’s true that some companies officially state, “We do not conduct animal testing.”
However, in reality, they often include exceptions such as:

  • “When required by regulations”
  • “When safety data is insufficient”

From my perspective, this isn’t compassion — it’s just a marketing strategy.

The Gap Between Japan and the World

In the EU, animal testing for cosmetics was banned in 2009.
By 2013, even the sale of animal-tested products was prohibited.

In contrast, Japan has no legal restrictions whatsoever.
The decision is entirely left to the discretion of each company.

“We Don’t Test on Animals”… Really?

Phrases like

“In principle, we do not conduct animal testing”
“Our company does not conduct animal testing”

may sound reassuring —
but they often mean:

“We may outsource it” or
“We may allow it in other countries.”

In particular, when exporting to China, animal testing is sometimes legally mandated, and companies often make exceptions.

That means: this is not a true abolition.

Why This Is So Dangerous

Many people believe the kind-hearted image companies project.
On SNS and beauty blogs, people say things like:

“You can trust Shiseido and Kao — they stopped animal testing!”

But this only helps companies maintain a misleading image.
Consumers are unknowingly promoting brands that still hurt animals.

Choosing Cruelty-Free in Japan Is Extremely Difficult

I’ve tried — sincerely — to only use products that are cruelty-free in Japan.

And what I found is:
The options are painfully limited.

In fact, it’s much harder to find cruelty-free items than vegan cosmetics.
As a result, I can hardly use any Japanese products anymore.

What Can We Do?

Yes, Kao and Lion offer affordable and convenient products.
But just take a moment to ask:

“Could animals be suffering behind this product?”

I used to buy them too — I didn’t know.
When I found out, I was devastated.
But I’m glad I did learn the truth.

Just a few actions can create change:

  • Don’t buy
  • Send inquiries
  • Share the message
  • Spread awareness
  • Talk to friends

Japanese companies will not change unless Japanese consumers change first.
Even small shifts in our purchasing choices can help align Japan with global standards.

Let’s Create a Country Where Kindness Is the Norm

Japan is respected for its quality and technology.
But more than that — I hope Japan can be known as:

A country that chooses kindness.

And that responsibility lies with us.

Don’t Be Misled by “No Animal Testing” Labels

Just because a brand says:

“We don’t conduct animal testing” or
“We have no plans to do so”

doesn’t guarantee it’s true.
In many cases, it’s just a surface-level PR statement.

In reality, they may still:

  • Conduct testing via raw material suppliers or contractors
  • Continue testing through subsidiaries or overseas branches

What We Truly Want:

A complete and unconditional ban on animal testing —
with no loopholes, no exceptions.

There’s no need to inflict suffering on animals for the sake of beauty or profit.

How to Tell If a Product Is Truly Cruelty-Free

1.Look for Third-Party Certification

Check for trusted international marks like:

  • Leaping Bunny
  • Choose Cruelty Free

Don’t trust vague labels like “no animal testing” without proof.

2.Research Ingredient Suppliers and Subsidiaries

Visit company CSR pages or check animal advocacy sites to learn more.

Let Your Voice Be Heard

In the coming days, this site will publish:

  • A list of companies that still conduct animal testing
  • Message templates you can use to demand change

Let’s move toward a future where no animal has to suffer for our convenience.