French cosmetics set export milestone in 2024

Exports of French cosmetics reached 22.5 billion euros in 2024, confirming the sector’s position as the second-largest contributor to the national trade balance, behind aeronautics. However, this 6.8% growth marks a slowdown compared with 10.8% in 2023.

Perfumes drive growth

The perfume segment posted the strongest growth (+13.6%), reaching 8 billion euros in exports. French perfumes have more than doubled their international sales in five years. The “Make-up and skincare” category remains in the lead with 11 billion euros, despite growth limited to 2.3%.

United States and Europe, leading markets

The European Union remains the leading market, with exports worth 9.1 billion euros (+8.2%), led by Germany, Spain and Italy. The United States dominates the country rankings with 2.8 billion euros, or 12.6% of exports. One French perfume in five is exported there.

Challenges in Asia, opportunities in the Middle East

China saw a decline of 8.9% to 1.78 billion euros, faced with a difficult economic climate and the rise of local brands. The Middle East is emerging as a promising market, with growth of 12.3% to 143 million euros.

Febea stresses the importance of maintaining the sector’s competitiveness in the face of increasing global competition. The industry, which employs 130,000 people, exports over 60% of its production, confirming France’s leadership in the cosmetics sector.

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