The Asian market for natural & organic cosmetics is showing high growth. New research by Ecovia Intelligence shows the growth rate is outpacing that of Europe and North America. Natural & organic cosmetic sales increased by 14 percent in Asia in 2021 compared to single digit levels in other regions.
Rising consumer awareness of natural & organic products is driving market growth. Asian consumers are turning to natural & organic cosmetics as they become more are of the possible harmful effects of synthetic chemicals like parabens, phthalates, SLS / SLES and mineral oils in cosmetics & toiletries.
New product launches are also a major driver of market growth; many natural and organic cosmetics are being launched by established brands and new start-ups. Initially, Western brands had prominent positions in the Asian market. Established brands like Jurlique and Neal’s Yard Remedies set up a network of concept stores in various Asian countries. Other brands entered distribution agreements with leading importers and distributors. Few Asian brands were present as they faced difficulties in sourcing natural and organic raw materials and formulating finished products.
Most new product launches are now by Asian brands. In recent years, many Indian, Thai, Korean and Chinese companies have launched natural and organic products. Few however prefer to take the certification route. This is partly because the most established international standards (Natrue and COSMOS) are based in Europe. Another reason is low recognition in Asia; retailers and consumers are not aware of standards and certification schemes.
Ethical labels however are gaining popularity. It is becoming more common for Asian cosmetic & personal care products to use labels like organic, 100% natural and free-from contentious chemicals. The Halal label is gaining traction partly because Asia has over 60% of the Muslim population. Indonesia is the first country in the word to have mandatory halal labelling for cosmetics. The government has given brands until October 2026 to adopt the standard.
Consumer demand for natural & organic cosmetics is rising in Asia. Ecovia Intelligence projects the Asian market to outpace growth in Europe and North America in the coming years. As this happens, Asia’s share of the global market for natural & organic cosmetics will expand; the share was less than 5 percent in 2010 and is projected to approach 15 percent in the coming years. Healthy growth rates translate into good business opportunities for new entrants and established brands.
Ecovia Intelligence will be speaking about ethical labels and sustainability schemes at Cosmotalks on Wednesday 16th November, at Cosmoprof Asia, taking place at the Singapore Expo. More details are on https://www.cosmoprof-asia.com/cosmotalks-ethical-sourcing-sustainability-schemes/
