THE WHAT? The French Federation of Beauty Companies (FEBEA) has called on French and European authorities to negotiate the removal of US tariffs on European cosmetics exports following the approval of the Turnberry Agreement, which introduces a 15% tariff rate on products entering the US market.
THE DETAILS The agreement, concluded between the European Union and the United States and recently approved by the European Parliament, establishes a 15% tariff on European cosmetics exported to the US. The move follows a period of escalating trade tensions that began in 2025, when an initial 15% tariff was introduced before being temporarily reduced to 10% in early 2026. According to FEBEA, the US remains the largest export market for French cosmetics, generating €2.35 billion in sales in 2025, despite a reported 19% year-on-year decline. The organisation estimates cumulative export losses of nearly €800 million since the tariffs were introduced, including €541 million in 2025 and a further €250 million during the first half of 2026. FEBEA represents more than 300 beauty manufacturers across fragrance, skincare, make-up, hygiene and hair care, the majority of which are SMEs and microbusinesses.
THE WHY? FEBEA argues that maintaining higher tariff levels will further weaken the competitiveness of French cosmetics companies in a strategically important export market at a time when demand is already slowing. The industry body warns that continued trade barriers could exacerbate declining exports, reduce revenues and place additional pressure on small and medium-sized beauty businesses that rely heavily on international trade.
Source: Fashion Network
