In a major boost to India’s rapidly growing beauty and personal care market, Japan’s leading cosmetics giant Shiseido has announced plans to begin local manufacturing operations in India, marking a significant step in its global expansion strategy. The move aligns with the growing trend of international luxury brands strengthening their presence in one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.
Shiseido, founded in 1872 and known for its premium skincare and makeup products, aims to leverage India’s manufacturing capabilities and rising consumer demand to deepen its footprint in the region. The company plans to set up production facilities to cater to both domestic demand and potential exports to nearby markets.
“India represents an exciting frontier for Shiseido,” said a company spokesperson in a statement. “With a young demographic, rising incomes, and an increasing appreciation for premium beauty, it is the right time to invest locally.”
A Strategic Move in a Growing Market
India’s beauty and personal care market, estimated at over $30 billion, is projected to grow by more than 10% annually over the next five years. A surge in consumer interest in skincare, clean beauty, and luxury cosmetics has attracted major global players—from L’Oréal and Estée Lauder to Dior and Chanel—all expanding their operations or retail presence in the country.
By manufacturing locally, Shiseido is expected to reduce import costs, streamline supply chains, and make its products more competitively priced in India’s increasingly diverse beauty landscape. The move also supports the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative, which encourages multinational companies to invest in domestic production.
Focus on Premium and Sustainable Beauty
Industry insiders suggest that Shiseido’s entry will focus on premium skincare, sun protection, and wellness-based beauty lines, categories seeing robust growth among India’s urban consumers. The brand is also likely to emphasize its hallmark of “Japanese beauty” (J-beauty) — rooted in minimalism, science-driven skincare, and a holistic approach to wellness.
Moreover, Shiseido has pledged to adopt sustainable manufacturing practices in India, including recyclable packaging and environment-conscious formulations. This aligns with its global sustainability goals and appeals to a new generation of eco-aware consumers.
Luxury Brands Bet Big on India
Shiseido’s announcement follows a wave of international luxury brands expanding in India. LVMH’s Sephora recently unveiled plans to open several new outlets, Estée Lauder launched a dedicated innovation hub in Mumbai, and Chanel introduced exclusive beauty studios in major metros.
“India is becoming the next big beauty battleground,” said a retail analyst at Euromonitor. “Luxury brands are not only entering the market—they are adapting to it, offering localized products, pricing, and experiences.”
Bridging Cultures Through Beauty
Shiseido’s decision also highlights the deepening Japan-India business collaboration, especially in lifestyle, fashion, and consumer goods sectors. The company’s expansion is seen as part of a broader effort to introduce Japanese aesthetics, quality, and skincare philosophies to Indian consumers.
As Shiseido prepares to begin operations, experts believe its presence will raise competition, push for higher quality standards, and expand consumer choice in India’s luxury beauty segment.
“This is not just a business expansion—it’s a cultural exchange,” said the company representative. “We hope to blend Japan’s timeless beauty principles with India’s dynamic and diverse market.” With India’s beauty industry on the rise and consumers embracing global trends with local flair, Shiseido’s move could mark the beginning of a new chapter in the East-meets-East beauty story—where Japanese precision meets Indian vibrance
Originally written by:TOI Business Desk
