Bulldog Skincare will keep its Leaping Bunny cruelty-free status while on sale in China. It is the first international skincare brand to do so.

According to a press release, a unique agreement — between Cruelty Free International (CFI), Shanghai Fengpu Industrial Park, Oriental Beauty Valley, and Knudsen&CRC — means that Bulldog can manufacture its products in the UK, fill them in the Fengxian Manufacturing Zone, and sell in the municipality of Shanghai.

The agreement is a huge win for Bulldog, says founder Simon Duffy. Without the Leaping Bunny certification, the brand would not sell its products in China.

“We have always challenged ourselves to make ethical choices when it comes to animal welfare,” he said in a statement.

“Even with the temptation of the huge Chinese market, we decided that we would never compromise our stance on animal testing,” he continued. “It is fantastic that this scheme has allowed us to enter mainland China while maintaining our cruelty-free status. We hope the success of this scheme will pave the way for more international cruelty-free brands to sell there.”

Changing the Future of Beauty and Skincare

CFI is on a mission to rid the world of animal testing. It offers its Leaping Bunny accreditation to cleaning brands and cosmetics that verifiably do not test on animals. Its symbol is highly sought after and respected among consumers.

According to the organization, the agreement with Bulldog could be the first step towards changing the beauty industry in China and around the world.

“We are delighted to see one of our Leaping Bunny approved companies come through the pilot project to successfully enter the Chinese market,” said Michelle Thew — the CEO of CFI — in a statement.

She added, “huge congratulations to Bulldog for showing commitment and leading the way. We know there is great demand from consumers in China for cruelty-free cosmetics. This is an amazing opportunity not only for Bulldog but for consumers in China and for the future of the whole beauty industry.”