The French Federation of Beauty Companies (FEBEA) has urged French and European authorities to negotiate the removal of US tariffs on European cosmetics exports, following the approval of the Turnberry Agreement. This agreement imposes a 15% tariff on European cosmetics entering the US market, threatening the competitiveness of French beauty manufacturers, particularly SMEs, in their largest export market.
Tariff background
The Turnberry 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. This follows escalating trade tensions that began in 2025, when an initial 15% tariff was introduced before being temporarily reduced to 10% in early 2026.
Export impact
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.
Industry representation
FEBEA represents more than 300 beauty manufacturers across fragrance, skincare, make-up, hygiene, and hair care, the majority of which are SMEs and microbusinesses. These companies rely heavily on international trade and are particularly vulnerable to sustained trade barriers.
What buyers should watch
Overseas importers and distributors of French cosmetics should monitor ongoing EU-US trade negotiations closely. A removal or reduction of the 15% tariff could restore pricing competitiveness and stabilize supply chains for French beauty products in the US market. Conversely, continued tariffs may lead to higher prices or reduced product availability for US buyers, potentially shifting sourcing patterns toward non-European suppliers.
Regulatory and channel signals
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.
Source: Read the original report | Published: June 19, 2026