Cosmax has upgraded its partner collaboration platform e-Biz to simplify raw material proposals and review, aiming to strengthen supply chain competitiveness for overseas buyers and distributors. The move comes as K-beauty exports continue to grow, reaching $11.43 billion in 2024, with SMEs accounting for 72.5% of exports, signaling rising demand for diverse ingredients and agile sourcing.
Platform upgrade and new raw material proposal feature
Cosmax announced on February 5 that it has fully revamped its e-Biz website, a partner collaboration platform. The upgrade enhances user convenience and introduces a new raw material proposal function. Previously, ingredient companies had to go through purchasing team contacts to propose new materials, creating barriers for new suppliers. Now, both existing and new companies can obtain temporary accounts and submit proposals using standardized forms.
Global supplier access and transparency
To expand participation from global ingredient suppliers, Cosmax has built an English-language page on the platform. The review process has also become more transparent: from submission to acceptance, all steps are updated in real time with notifications. Submitted raw materials are automatically classified as new or alternative ingredients based on composition. New ingredients are reviewed by Cosmax's R&I unit for technical suitability, while alternative ingredients undergo a two-stage review by the purchasing team and then the research lab.
Specialized review and market context
Depending on product type, the platform automatically assigns specialized research teams for each cosmetic category, improving review expertise. This platform upgrade aligns with the growth of the K-beauty industry, which has seen exports rise from $10.18 billion in 2024 to $11.43 billion in 2024 (the article likely refers to 2023 and 2024 data, but the text states 2024 and last year). Over the past decade, the average annual growth rate has been 14.8%. South Korea ranked third globally in cosmetic exports in 2024, after France and the US.
What buyers should watch
For overseas importers, distributors, and clinic buyers, Cosmax's digitalized raw material proposal system lowers entry barriers for new suppliers, potentially expanding the range of innovative ingredients available. The English-language platform and transparent review process make it easier for global companies to engage. As K-beauty exports shift toward SME and indie brands, buyers may find more diverse and agile sourcing options through Cosmax's ODM services.
Source: Read the original report | Published: June 05, 2026