Following the release of the French foreign trade figures for 2021 by the French Customs Department, the FEBEA (French Federation of Beauty Companies) has published the results of the cosmetics sector exports. While France’s foreign trade deficit continues to widen, the French cosmetics sector had another record year internationally in 2021. Not only has the decline of 2020 been largely made up, but the 2019 level has been exceeded by 2.5%, mainly thanks to make-up, facial care and perfumery. China confirms its position as the leading destination country for French cosmetics exports.
After a contrasted year in 2020, the French cosmetics industry is back to excellent export performances, confirming France’s position as the world leader in cosmetics. The sector is among the top 3 contributors to the country’s positive foreign trade balance, with a balance of €12.9 billion, alongside aeronautics (€30.8 billion) and wines and spirits (€14.6 billion).
“This dynamism of exports shows that cosmetics remain a flagship of French know-how, recognised worldwide and contributes to the growth of the French economy by creating jobs, with more than 160,000 people working directly for the sector throughout the country,” comments the FEBEA.
Record growth rates in China and the United States
The European Union and Asia together account for almost 2/3 of French cosmetics exports.
The ranking by country shows China in first place, with €1.9 billion, or 11.7% of exports. This figure has seen very strong growth (+56%) since 2019, thanks in particular to make-up sales. France now exports more than 1 in 3 lipsticks to China.
The United States comes second, with €1.8 billion, or 11.2% of total exports. Here again, growth has been robust in 2021, particularly for the perfume category, which has grown by 66% compared to 2020.
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