One of the most interesting markets for brands looking to enter Asia, with a mix that creates a unique environment for commercial trade: 7.5 million residents from various nationalities, a center for business and tourism, and a gateway to mainland China.

With no import duties on cosmetics, toiletry and skincare products, and no registration requirement on cosmetic products, Hong Kong offers an important launch pad for marketing cosmetics and skincare products into the mainland Chinese market.

In the food & supplement category, 95% of Hong Kong’s food requirements are supplied by imports, and there are no taxes or duty in anything but liquor, tobacco, hydrocarbon oil, and methyl alcohol. Hong Kong also serves as a trading hub to China and other parts of Asia in this category.

With a population of 1.38 billion people, a cosmeceutical and cosmetics industry valued at of USD 6.5 billion, roughly 2.5% of the global market, and an annual growth rate of 13-18%, higher than in the US or Europe, India is a literally the land of opportunities for beauty brands.

India has the world’s 6th largest food market, with 31% of general consumption accounted to food. Food counts for 66% of the overall retail market in India, with an estimated value of $770 billion by 2020 end; gourmet foods are approximately $1.1 billion, with a CAGR of 20%. Imported food constitutes 15 -20% of the total organized retail space with a year-on-year growth rate 30-40% in the last five years.

The food supplements segment is also experiencing growth as a result of change in dietary habits and awareness to preventative nutrition.

Although Israel is a relatively small market in terms of its population, Israelis much like other western consumers are enamored of their beauty regimen, and spend a nice share of their disposable income on products and treatments.

Israel’s almost year-round warm climate also impacts the consumption of skincare products. Israel’s cosmetics products market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.21% 2020 – 2025. Online sales account for just 10% of all sales of cosmetics and personal care products, but this segment is growing rapidly as a result of COVID 19 restrictions.