Beauty Trade Shows in Asia

Asian beauty trade shows are built for business. They are where brands launch into new markets, distributors find their next partners and salon and spa buyers see thousands of products under one roof, often from manufacturers in Korea, Japan, China and Thailand.

The biggest sourcing events are Cosmoprof Asia, held each November at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, and China Beauty Expo in Shanghai each May. Japan has two Beautyworld shows, in Osaka each October and Tokyo each May, covering everything from hair and nails to skincare and spa. Bangkok is a strong second hub, with Cosmoprof CBE ASEAN in June and COSMEX in November focused on manufacturing and private label. Across Southeast Asia, national trade fairs run in Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur and Manila, Vietbeauty and Cosmobeaute Vietnam takes place in Ho Chi Minh City each July, and Cosmoprof India brings the trade to Mumbai in December. Further west, Central Asia Beauty Expo opens the doors in Almaty each spring.

Each beauty trade show in Asia is listed below with dates, venues and who can attend, so you can plan your buying trips for the year ahead.

Getting between the shows

The Asian trade calendar is spread across several major cities, and most have frequent flights between them, so many buyers plan a route that takes in two shows in the same season. In November, for example, COSMEX in Bangkok and Cosmoprof Asia in Hong Kong fall in the same month. Many venues are well served by public transport: BITEC in Bangkok sits beside Bang Na station on the BTS Skytrain, and the Shanghai New International Expo Centre is in Pudong on the city metro.

Where to stay

For Hong Kong, the hotels in Wan Chai and Admiralty are close to the convention centre. In Shanghai, Pudong is the most convenient base for the expo halls, and in Tokyo the Odaiba waterfront area is next to Tokyo Big Sight. Rooms near the big fairs fill quickly, so book as soon as dates are confirmed.

Tips for trade visitors

• Register online before you travel. Many shows give free or reduced entry to trade visitors who sign up early.
• Bring plenty of business cards and proof of your business, as most of these shows are trade only.
• Book meetings with exhibitors ahead of the show, especially if you are looking for manufacturers or distribution.
• Allow time for translation. Some exhibitors offer English support, but a translation app helps on busy show floors.