China’s Cosmetics Sales Hit Record CNY1.1 Trillion for First Time

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Last year marked a milestone for China’s cosmetics industry, with total sales surpassing CNY1.1 trillion (approximately USD143.6 billion) for the first time, marking the dominance of domestic brands in the world’s largest consumer market for beauty products.

In 2025, cosmetics sales increased by 2.8%, reaching just over CNY1.1 trillion compared to the previous year, according to data from the China Association of Fragrance, Flavour, and Cosmetic Industries released on January 20.

For the first time in 2022, Chinese brands captured half of the domestic market share. This figure continued to expand, reaching 53% in 2023, 55% in 2024, and climbing to 57% last year.

Many local beauty companies have experienced remarkable growth, with numerous firms across the supply chain—including raw material providers, packaging companies, brand proprietors, and operators—rushing to go public. The number of these new listings is in the double digits, highlighting the sector’s rapid expansion.

Analyzing the top 1,000 brands by online sales, Chinese brands led with nearly CNY268.9 billion (about USD38.6 billion) in sales. French competitors followed, generating CNY75.5 billion (around USD10.8 billion). U.S. brands trailed with CNY55 billion, Japanese brands with CNY29.9 billion, and South Korean brands with CNY18.7 billion, making up the top five.

Consumer preferences in China show a notable split: strong demand for affordable products priced under CNY300 (roughly USD43.08) and an increasing interest in premium items priced over CNY1,000 (about USD143.60). The association notes this pattern reflects a dual trend in consumer spending.

Last year, products costing less than CNY300 accounted for 59% of total sales. Meanwhile, high-end items priced over CNY1,000 contributed 15%. Segments priced between CNY300 and CNY500, as well as CNY500 to CNY1,000, made up 16% and 11%, respectively—both seeing a decline compared to previous years.