The sixth meeting of the Cosmetics Industry Committee, organized by the Cosmetic Valley competitiveness cluster and the Federation of Beauty Companies (FEBEA), was held on February 3, 2026, chaired by Sébastien Martin, Minister of Industry.
This meeting brought together around thirty leaders representing the entire value chain of the sector (ingredients, production, packaging, brands, etc.), covering all companies in the sector, from SMEs to large groups.
A strategic sector for the economy
This industry committee confirmed the strategic role played by the cosmetics industry in the French economy. With nearly 300,000 direct and indirect jobs, it is one of France’s major industrial pillars.
And despite an unfavorable international environment, the cosmetics industry generated a trade surplus of €17 billion in 2024. Although its exports are currently being severely affected by the increase in US customs duties, leading to an estimated loss of around €500 million on the US market in 2025, the sector continues to innovate, invest, and create skilled jobs throughout the country.
Economic, commercial, and regulatory challenges
During the discussion, industry representatives shared their concerns with the Minister of Industry: • Economic prospects have become uncertain due to the exacerbation of international trade tensions generated, in particular, by the sharp increase in US customs duties and increased international competition, particularly from Korea
• The weakening of brands due to the growth of online counterfeiting (orders placed on Internet platforms, …
