France's Cosmetic Valley unveils Shanghai Office plans at CIIE

The China International Import Expo, which serves as an ideal platform for enhancing cross-border collaborations and igniting innovation, has emerged as a pivotal platform where minds converge to birth new ideas and products, said the chief executive officer of Cosmetic Valley, a prominent French organization spearheading a global network of cosmetic companies, including industry giants such as L'Oreal, LVMH, and an array of suppliers in France.

Marking its debut at the 7th CIIE, the Cosmetic Valley unveiled plans for its maiden overseas office in Shanghai. Christophe Masson, the CEO of Cosmetic Valley, shared insights during an exclusive interview with China Daily, emphasizing the organization's commitment to fostering fresh collaborations in the realms of business, research, and the cosmetics industry.

"China stands as our first global partner since our inception in 1994. Over three decades of collaboration, we continue to view China as a pivotal market for France. As the leading exporter of cosmetic products, the unwavering support of Chinese consumers propels our drive for enhanced production and innovation," Masson said.

Against the backdrop of the 60th anniversary of Sino-French diplomatic relations, the Cosmetic Valley cemented its commitment by signing a memorandum in October to establish an office in Shanghai. This strategic move aims to facilitate regular exchanges between Chinese and French cosmetic enterprises, fostering a robust mechanism for sustained engagement.

Highlighting the burgeoning innovation landscape in China, Masson lauded the country's vibrant ecosystem, emphasizing the value of forging connections with emerging brands. Notably, the recent inclusion of Chinese brands at Cosmetic 360, a Parisian fair, signifies a pivotal step toward fostering bilateral exchange and mutual learning.

Looking ahead, the new office in Shanghai is poised to prioritize engagement with local Chinese cosmetic brands, laying the groundwork for deeper business relationships. Masson outlined plans for the upcoming year, underscoring initiatives to host localized events, engaging directly with consumers to tap into the dynamic Chinese market and introduce cutting-edge technologies and products.

Anticipating the next iteration of CIIE, Masson expressed optimism for a broader collaboration encompassing institutions, cosmetic brands, and material suppliers. He voiced a hope for expanded space dedicated to cosmetics at the expo, envisioning a mutually beneficial platform that would not only benefit China and France but also resonate across global markets.

Xia Miao contributed to this story.