Markets.
Asia's beauty markets, country by country, export machines, rising consumers, and the rules of each game.
China's Instant Retail Market Projected at 1.2 Trillion Yuan for 2026
China's online retail sector is shifting towards instant delivery, with consumers now expecting one-hour fulfillment for various goods, including cosmetics. This market is projected to reach 1.2 trillion yuan (US$178 billion) by year-end 2026, demonstrating a significant change in consumer behavior and platform strategy.
HK Retail Growth Hits 15 Months, Cosmetics Soar 7.3% in July
Hong Kong's retail sector recorded its 15th consecutive month of growth in July, with overall sales increasing 4.5% year-on-year to HK$31 billion. The medicines and cosmetics category saw a 7.3% rise, while online retail sales grew 9.5%.
Seoul Expands K-Beauty Support to Ingredient Suppliers
South Korea has formally included personal care ingredient makers in its national plan to boost the K-beauty industry. New legislation grants the Ministry of Health and Welfare authority to support the entire beauty ecosystem, offering grants and funds to innovative companies, including ingredient suppliers, and focusing on modernization initiatives like AI integration.
L'Oréal, Estée Lauder Expand India Footprint with Acquisitions, Retail Growth
India's beauty market attracts significant international investment. L'Oréal and Estée Lauder are acquiring local firms. Prestige and K-beauty brands are growing their retail presence. This occurs as trade policies and regulatory oversight evolve.
K-Beauty's US Market Hits $2.8bn, Expands into Sexual Wellness & Scent Care
Korean beauty's market influence is growing beyond traditional skincare and makeup, moving into new categories like sexual wellness and 'scent care'. U.S. sales of K-beauty products reached $2.8 billion in early 2026, a 48% increase from the prior year, demonstrating sustained market demand and retail expansion.
Korean Hair Care Market Records $4.1 Million Media Impact Value Growth
Korean hair care generated US$4.1 million in media impact value between Q1 2025 and Q1 2026, driven by rising consumer interest in specialized scalp and hair routines. This growth reflects a 'skinification' trend in the sector.
K-beauty Export Watch: $7bn Half-Year as the US Overtakes China
Korean cosmetics exports hit a record $7 billion in the first half of 2026, up 27.3%. The shift underneath the headline matters more: the United States now takes $1.45 billion to China's $1.01 billion, reversing the order that defined the last decade.
EU Imposes Anti-Dumping Duties on Chinese Sodium Benzoate for Cosmetics
The European Union has implemented provisional anti-dumping duties on sodium benzoate imports from China, a chemical frequently used as a preservative in cosmetics. The move affects major Chinese exporters, with duties ranging from 57.6% to 116.4%.