For the first time, the trade balance of the cosmetics sector exceeds the threshold of nine billion euros. According to a press release from the FEBEA, exports are more than ever the source of growth for cosmetic companies operating in France with exports rising by a further 4.4% in 2015 to reach 11.8 billion euros, confirming the role of the cosmetics industry as a major player for the French economy.
FEBEA press release
The image of French products, combined with quality and know-how, enables France to remain world leader in this sector.
Skincare products and perfumes: drivers of French exports
Care products and perfumes account for 75.5% of French cosmetics exports, accounting for 42.5% and 33% respectively of exports.
As for the make-up category, it is experiencing a marked dynamism with exports up 17% for lip make-up, 10% for eye make-up and 12% for powders.
The European Union: 1st market for companies operating in France
In value terms, every second product is sold in European countries. This market accounts for 48.9% of total exports:
- exports to the European Union rose by 5.8%,
- the trade balance with the European Union rose by 5.1%.
Of the five countries to which companies export most, only one is non-European: the United States (in order: Germany, United States, United Kingdom, Spain and Italy).
Around the world of beauty
Only the"Europe outside the European Union" zone recorded a decline, which is explained by Russia's economic difficulties and the very significant drop in the trade balance with this destination (-44%).
Asia remains an important market, accounting for 16.2% of French exports.
Nevertheless, while growth remains …
