France largest EU importer of Korean cosmetics in 2015, says study

France has been named the largest importer of South Korean cosmetics among European Union members, according to a study by Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA).

The European nation imported €17.41m worth of Korean cosmetics, especially multi-functional products such as brightening serums, anti-wrinkle creams, blemish balms, moisturiser, BB cream that accounted for nearly 35% of the total sales in Europe in 2015, reported the South Korean news agency Yonhap.

France imported cosmetics worth €9m and €5.1m in 2013 and 2014 respectively.

According to the study, France is closely followed by the UK and Germany with over 16% and 9% of consumption respectively.

Outbound shipments of Korean cosmetics to France have sharply jumped from €5.1 million in 2013 to €9 million in 2014.

KOTRA was quoted by Yonhap as saying: "Korean companies will have to step up efforts to use eco-friendly packaging and containers as French consumers buy cosmetic products that are considerate of well-being and environmental effect.

"Companies with advanced manufacturing technology can partner up with global companies to tap into the local market."

Most popular South Korean beauty brands include Blossom Jeju, Neogen, Shangpree, Primera, Blithe, Erborian, Acwell and Leaders.