How do you export cosmetics?
Cosmetics export strategies experiencing growing demand worldwide alongside the K-beauty craze.
Market Overview
The global cosmetics market is approximately $500 billion and is growing at a rate of 5% annually. Korean cosmetics are strong in skincare, mask packs, and sun care products, with the United States, China, Japan, and Southeast Asia being the main export markets.
Key Export Markets
The United States (strengthened FDA/MoCRA regulations), China (requires hygiene approval), Japan (PMDA notification), Southeast Asia (importance of halal certification), and the EU (CPNP registration) are key markets. Since regulations vary by country, prior verification is essential.
Mandatory Certification
You will need to obtain registrations such as FDA registration in the U.S. and compliance with MoCRA, EU CPNP registration, NMPA hygiene permits in China, halal certification (for Islamic countries), and GMP certification. You can receive support for certification acquisition costs through export vouchers.
Buyer Type
These include distributors (drugstores, department stores, online malls), OEM/ODM customers (who request production under their own brand), agents/distributors (with exclusive distribution rights), and large retailers (Walmart, Amazon).
Major Exhibitions
Notable events include Cosmoprof Bologna (Italy, March), Cosmoprof Asia (Hong Kong, November), in-cosmetics Global (Europe, April), CIBE (China, March), and Beautyworld Middle East (UAE, October).
Buyer Type
Distributor
Drugstore, department store, H&B store chain
OEM/ODM Customers
Companies that request production under their own brand
Online retailer
E-commerce platforms such as Amazon and iHerb
Mandatory Certification
Major Exhibitions
| common.tableHeaders.tradeShowName | common.tableHeaders.location | common.tableHeaders.period |
|---|---|---|
| Cosmoprof Bologna | Bologna, Italy | March |
| Cosmoprof Asia | Hong Kong | November |
| in-cosmetics Global | Europe (changes annually) | April |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the essential certifications for cosmetics export?
A. It varies by the target export country. The USA requires FDA facility registration and MoCRA compliance, China needs NMPA hygiene approval, and the EU mandates CPNP registration.
Q. What are the promising items for K-beauty exports?
A. Skincare (essence, serum), mask packs, and sun care products are in high global demand. Recently, the demand for vegan/clean beauty products has also been on the rise.