Having loved years of document export figures, the French cosmetics and fragrance trade believed itself protected in opposition to the a number of elements which have decimated a lot of France’s industrial base. However the election of Donald Trump launched a doubtlessly devastating wrench right into a seemingly well-oiled machine.
Double whammy
In 2024, French cosmetics exports to america reached practically 3 billion euros, with perfumes accounting for about half of the overall. The U.S. have been the main marketplace for French cosmetics exports. But, the commerce insurance policies launched by the Trump administration and the European Union’s subsequent capitulation have considerably reshaped the aggressive surroundings.
Tariffs that had beforehand been zero or near zero for a lot of beauty merchandise exported to america rose to 15% on the finish of July 2025. Further duties of fifty% have been imposed on sure steel packaging elements on August 19, 2025. This tariff shock was additional amplified by the deliberate depreciation of the greenback, which routinely made European merchandise dearer within the American market.
Based on consulting agency Astérès, this double blow may trigger French cosmetics exports to america to fall by 21% by 2026 — a loss equal to 620 million euros in income. If not offset, the decline may result in the lack of as much as 2,700 direct and eight,200 oblique jobs.
Preliminary results
A factual evaluation of the newest accessible customs information reveals that French cosmetics exports to america declined by 12.7% within the first half of 2025 — that’s, earlier than the brand new customs duties took impact. This decline is especially attributed to stock changes pushed by importers’ expectations on the finish of 2024.
Wanting on the quarterly outcomes revealed by listed teams corresponding to Interparfums and L’Oréal for the reason that tariff measures took impact, the affect on gross sales doesn’t seem vital. General, gross sales have remained secure and even elevated. Nonetheless, the change price impact ensuing from the weaker greenback has practically offset these features.
Moreover, reorganizations of worth chains are undoubtedly underway. Main teams corresponding to L’Oréal, The Estée Lauder Corporations, and Procter & Gamble have indicated that they’re streamlining their provide chains to fabricate as shut as doable to their finish markets. These measures will primarily have an effect on probably the most price-sensitive objects, specifically inside the make-up and hair care classes.
Motion plan
In response to what it views as alarming prospects, FEBEA is asking for sturdy mobilization round its Magnificence Business Package deal— an motion plan geared toward safeguarding the competitiveness of France’s cosmetics and fragrance sector.
The roadmap goals to: diversify exports through new free commerce agreements; consolidate the European market by facilitating the motion of merchandise made in Europe; simplify the regulatory framework; and higher sort out unlawful practices, together with counterfeiting and illicit gross sales.
“We can not stand by. We name on European and French decision-makers to offer the assets wanted to take care of our international management, with out introducing pointless issues to our working framework,” stated Emmanuel Guichard, Normal Delegate of FEBEA.
