Nivel de conocimiento del consumidor respecto a los reglamentos técnicos del INEN y el ARCSA de cosméticos importados provenientes de china para la comercialización en la ciudad de Quito

Abstract

The objective of this research is to analyze the level of consumer knowledge regarding the technical regulations established by INEN and ARCSA for the commercialization of cosmetics imported from China in the city of Quito. To achieve this purpose, a mixed methodological approach was applied, combining quantitative and qualitative methods. From the quantitative point of view, descriptive research with a non-experimental cross-sectional design was carried out, based on surveys applied to a representative sample of 384 consumers, determined from the statistical formula for finite populations, considering a projected urban population of 2,102,560 inhabitants. In addition, qualitative interviews were applied to a university professor expert in foreign trade and to a representative of a cosmetics importer. The results revealed that, although the majority of respondents claim to know the importance of labeling and sanitary registration, more than 55% do not know what RTE INEN 093 implies, which shows a gap between perceived knowledge and actual technical knowledge. Likewise, 84% consider it important that a cosmetic product complies with the regulations, but many consumers do not actively verify this information at the time of purchase. It is concluded that there is a positive assessment of health regulations, although this does not always translate into informed practices. Therefore, it is proposed to implement accessible educational campaigns, mainly in social networks, to promote conscious and safe consumption, strengthening the relationship between consumers, regulations and public health.