This week, Nars released a statement via Instagram defending its decision to sell to China. While it might sound like a no-brainer for a global beauty brand to cater to such a huge market, there's one problem. Unlike the United States and many other countries that shun animal cruelty, Chinese strict law requires such testing (but it's important to note that this might change) [1].
On Tuesday, Nars took to Instagram to defend its controversial decision, saying, "We have decided to make Nars available in China because we feel it is important to bring our vision of beauty and artistry to fans in the region." The brand also disclosed that it is "proud to support" [2] the Institute For In Vitro Sciences, a foundation that's attempting to advance Chinese testing methods.
We want you to know that we hear you. The global elimination of animal testing needs to happen. We firmly believe that product and ingredient safety can be proven by non-animal methods, but we must comply with the local laws of the markets in which we operate, including in China. We have decided to make NARS available in China because we feel it is important to bring our vision of beauty and artistry to fans in the region. NARS does not test on animals or ask others to do so on our behalf, except where required by law. NARS is committed and actively working to advance alternative testing methods. We are proud to support the Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS), a globally recognized organization at the forefront of advancing non-animal methods in China and around the world. NARS is hopeful that together, we can work toward a cruelty-free world. For more on the good work IIVS is doing, see: http://bit.ly/2rVjnwV [3]
Of course, strong reactions followed. One commenter wrote, "Don't even try and justify it @narsissist. You guys sold out!" Another brought the situation closer to home, writing, "[Testing] is done on adorable little puppies and kittens. Think about [this] tonight when you get home from your job at Nars and your dog is so excited to see you walk through that door." Twitter followed suit, urging many to boycott the brand.
Shame on you @NARSissist [4] You chose to cause horrific unnecessary suffering to innocent animals purely to line your own pockets. #boycottNARS [5] https://t.co/IbEVRhghDP [6]
— Cruelty Free London (@crueltyfreeLDN) June 29, 2017 [7]
@NARSissist [8] "we hear you, we just don't give a rats arse" https://t.co/iHstXstcPl [9]
Money over principles. Such a shame 😥#boycottnars [10]— L △ U R △ ✨ (@lauramaysturges) June 27, 2017 [11]
I know we are all incredibly sad to hear about #NARS [12] but we cannot fight fire with fire. Anger shuts others down & then they won't listen
— Jkissa (@JkissaMakeup) June 25, 2017 [13]
@NARSissist [14] Disappointed #NARS [15] is no longer cruelty-free. The decision to test on animals for the sake of expansion is completely unethical.
— Victoria Bigliardi (@aeolianesque) June 25, 2017 [16]
beyond disappointing when cruelty free makeup brands put profit before ethics and decide to sell in China, looking at you Nars
— mel 🥀 (@melaniedrinnan) June 26, 2017 [17]
Nars released no further statement. Fans will just have to see what, if any, impact the brand's decision will have on the cosmetics empire.