The Cosmetics Industry in South Africa 2017

Over the last two years the cosmetics industry has experienced an estimated compound annual growth rate of 4.6%. The value of the sector, which includes the manufacture of cosmetics, perfumes and other personal care preparations, is estimated to have grown to R27.35bn at retail level and R19.69bn at manufacturing level. In the formal cosmetics sector there are approximately 250 companies that employ more than 60,000 people.

A well-Represented Sector:

The local industry is supported by the Cosmetic, Toiletry and Fragrance Association of South Africa (CTFA) and the Chemical and Allied Industries Association (CAIA) and was self-regulated until 2016 when the Department of Health published draft amended Regulations relating to the Labelling, Advertising and Composition of Cosmetics. A number of local companies export and are members of the Cosmetic Export Council of South Africa (CECOSA) while the South African Direct Selling Association represents the interests of more than 1.13 million independent direct sellers.

A Growing Export Market:

South Africa exported cosmetics to the value of R7.84bn in 2016, representing an increase of nearly 35% compared to 2013. The largest cosmetics category focusing on make-up, skin care and nails, increased exports by 45% from a value of R2.3bn in 2013 to R3.37bn in 2016. South African Development Community (SADC) countries remain South Africa's major trading partners.

Report Coverage:

This report focuses on the local cosmetics industry which continues to be dominated by major international companies such as market leader Revlon which has market share of approximately 31%. Profiles are provided for 72 industry players, including Unilever which is focusing on the growing market in sub-Saharan Africa and recently set up a new Africa Hub office in Johannesburg. Also profiled is small enterprise Sun Factor Laboratories CC, which manufactures and exports lip-balms and other toiletries under its own label, MEDILIP. The company also undertakes contract manufacturing and fills lip-balms and other toiletries for customers under their own label.