French Cosmetic Exports Hold Steady Despite 15% US Tariffs

Resilient Performance Reflects Sector Vitality

French cosmetics exports reached 22.5 billion euros in 2024, despite the pressure from a 15% US tariff. This figure highlights the strength of the sector, which represents 300,000 direct and indirect jobs in France and nearly 3 million in Europe. The United States is one of the top two markets for French beauty products, alongside China. Despite higher taxes, results remain strong, driven by the reputation for excellence and the ability of brands to establish themselves in premium segments. Notably, some French groups among the global leaders benefit from a strong capacity for adaptation and range innovation, particularly in high-end perfumery and specialized skincare, which are highly valued by North American customers. Stéphane Séjourné, Vice-President of the European Commission, recently reminded in Paris that « the industry wants to rely on the support of the European Union, which should make it a strategic priority."

Europe urged to support competitiveness amid trade barriers

During the Cosmetic 360 trade show, the industry reiterated the need to strengthen European support to maintain international competitiveness. The Federation of Beauty Companies (FEBEA) and Cosmetic Valley are calling for intensified free trade agreements and a simplification of regulatory frameworks to boost exports. According to Emmanuel Guichard, FEBEA's general delegate, « the cosmetic sector places a lot of trust and hope in the European Commission to support our companies in the face of rising global competition and increasingly complex regulations. » These demands come as the industry also highlights the impact of consumption slowdowns in China but stresses the critical importance of the North American market. Beyond tariff issues, the fluidity of intra-European trade and the fight against counterfeiting are central priorities.

Strategic Shifts by Industry Giants and Aggressive Redeployments

Large-scale transactions highlight the desire of French groups to adapt their models. Kering announced the sale of its beauty division to L'Oréal for 4 billion euros, including prestigious brands like Creed and paving the way for new licenses in the luxury sector. This strategic move aims to strengthen portfolios in a context of intensifying competition, particularly in the premium segment, and to offer new export opportunities. L'Oréal, the world's leading company in the sector, recorded a 0.5% increase in sales in the third quarter of 2025, driven by growth in its two main markets, China and the United States, despite currency effects. Nicolas Hieronimus, the group's CEO, remains confident about the current fiscal year, focusing on « profitability growth. » The adaptability of key players in the sector and their ability to refocus on strong brands appear more than ever as a guarantee of resilience in the face of global trade disruptions.