The move towards halal
A recent report by the University of Malaysia Perlis, revealed that as cosmetic companies begin to tap into this significant market, the segment, although noted as doing particularly well in the Middle East, is also growing on a global basis and is estimated as worth between €5bn-€14bn.
The demand is said to be coming from increased consumer knowledge of the ingredients used in halal formulations and the way they are produced, while organic ingredient concepts are thought to be along the same principles.
Colgate-Palmolive is amongst the most recent cosmetic brands to have developed halal certified ranges that contain no animal ingredients and are not tested on animals. The Body Shop, although not certified halal, is also said to be doing well in the Middle East due to its strong stance against animal testing, and natural ingredients in their products.
European market potential
With 4.7 million Muslims said to be inhabiting France, Chantal Ronceray of Jamal Paris, a halal cosmetics company, says that while it is Europe’s largest such population, the French halal cosmetics market is still a young one but could eventually be worth €750m annually.
"Many French Muslims think halal only applies to meat and most can’t afford imported halal C&T brands like Saaf and OnePure. But analysts are predicting that the market will grow with the next generation of French born Muslim entrepreneurs," she said.
Currently, the French halal cosmetics market is said to be dominated by US based OnePure, British label Saaf Pure Skincare, and Dutch based Sahfee Care.
Halal dedicated conferences
With the growth of the halal segment, came conferences dedicated to its potential, future trends and R&D activities, said to help cosmetic industry professionals to get a grasp of what some considered an unknown area.
The first international Conference on Halal Cosmetics and Toiletries was held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in April of last year and targeted manufacturers, distributors, and certification agencies in the sector.
Then, the event organisers Asif International considered the segment as emerging and having enormous potential “given that Muslims are the world’s fastest growing consumer segment.”
A mini exhibition featured companies showcasing fragrances, skincare and raw ingredients, while a conference programme addressed the global market for halal cosmetics, ingredients, standards, certification, and how to market end products.