Dhaka, August 10 (V7N) — Bangladesh’s cosmetics, toiletries, and personal care industry has crossed the BDT 350 billion mark, yet sector leaders have raised concerns about the industry's dependence on imported raw materials, with 90 percent sourced from abroad.
The scale and potential of Bangladesh’s domestic cosmetics and personal care industry came into focus at Cosmetica Dhaka 2025: Concurrent Personal Care & Hygiene Show, a two-day international exhibition held at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in Dhaka. The event, which concluded Saturday evening, drew participation from industry leaders, investors, global manufacturers, and key stakeholders from across Asia and the Middle East.
Inaugurated by Park Youngsik, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Bangladesh, the exhibition marked the country’s first major platform dedicated exclusively to cosmetics, toiletries, and hygiene products. Organized by SquadMind Global Ltd., the event was supported by the Embassy of the Republic of Korea, Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA), and Thailand’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP). Square Toiletries Ltd. served as the title sponsor, with Cute as gold sponsor and Ingenious Resources as platinum sponsor.
Speaking at the event, Malik Mohammad Sayeed, CEO of Square Toiletries Ltd., emphasized the rapid growth of the sector: “Bangladesh’s market for cosmetics, toiletries, and personal hygiene products is valued at over BDT 350 billion and has been experiencing consistent double-digit growth. With increasing urbanization and lifestyle convergence between urban and rural areas, we expect this momentum to continue.”
However, he also noted the sector’s vulnerability due to high dependence on imports. “Around 90 percent of the raw materials we use are imported. This creates volatility and supply chain challenges. We are addressing this by engaging in research, international collaboration, and visiting countries like Korea to study advanced formulations. The recent interest from Korean companies in entering the Bangladeshi market is a promising development.”
He added that Square Toiletries is also expanding its product lines in cosmetics and hygiene, including menstrual health products such as sanitary napkins, to meet growing consumer demand.
Korean Ambassador Park Youngsik, attending as chief guest, highlighted Korea’s global position as a leader in the cosmetics industry. “K-Beauty now ranks third globally, with exports exceeding USD 10 billion in 2024. The Korean government is committed to strengthening economic cooperation with Bangladesh. Cosmetica Dhaka 2025 opens new doors for collaboration, trade, and joint ventures in this growing market,” he said.
Ambassador Park added that Korean brands are well positioned to contribute to Bangladesh’s personal care industry with their reputation for quality, safety, and innovation.
The exhibition featured over 100 stalls representing major brands and suppliers from Bangladesh, Korea, Thailand, the UAE, India, Japan, and other countries. It offered live product demonstrations, expert skin care consultations, and sessions on beauty trends and market innovation. The platform served as a key networking opportunity for entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
S.M. Faisal Munim, CEO of SquadMind Global Ltd., noted the overwhelming success of the debut event: “We received a far greater response than expected. This exhibition united domestic and international stakeholders, and we’re already seeing interest in future investments and partnerships. With growing consumer awareness, the sector has strong potential to attract foreign investment and create employment.”
Industry insiders believe the event is a step forward in establishing Bangladesh as a hub for personal care innovation. Participants also stressed the importance of addressing the market challenges posed by counterfeit and illegal products, and ensuring that consumers have access to safe and high-quality items.
The exhibition drew thousands of visitors, including industry representatives, influencers, media personalities, and the general public. It concluded with a cultural program on Saturday evening.
The event’s strategic partner was Prothom Alo Lifestyle’s Haal Fashion, with media support from Canvas lifestyle magazine, Protidiner Bangladesh, and Bangla Telegraph.
END/PR/SMA/
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