Manufacturing and packaging solutions for fast-growing personal care sector

Indonesia, the sixth largest economy globally, is rapidly positioning itself as a key player in the production and export of personal care products. As the largest market in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is witnessing tremendous growth in its personal care sector. Projections from Statista indicate an impressive annual growth rate of 4.29% from 2024 to 2028, with the market's revenue expected to reach a remarkable US$3.88 billion by 2024 alone. This surge presents an exciting opportunity for manufacturers of cosmetics, skincare, and other personal care products to tap into the wide potential of Indonesia's expanding market.

A pivotal shift in consumer preferences is driving much increased demand for natural and organic products. As more consumers prioritise sustainability and eco-friendly options, brands are adapting to this trend, providing clean beauty products to cater to this growing segment. The Indonesian market is not only responding to these demands but is also set to lead the way in Southeast Asia’s personal care industry.

The ASEAN Personal Care Technology Summit was launched in Indonesia in 2023. It was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, and this year's summit only intensified the momentum and to further explore these opportunities and discuss the latest advancements. Held in Jakarta from December 5 and 6, the 2024 ASEAN Personal Care Technology Summit was organised by Ringier Events Southeast Asia. The conference served as a critical platform for key stakeholders in Indonesia’s personal care industry—cosmetics brands, factories, agents, distributors, and more—to engage in meaningful discussions on the future of personal care technology.

A platform to explore innovations in fast-emerging sector 

The 2024 summit attracted a diverse array of local and international speakers, experts, and business partners. Over two days, the summit delved into emerging trends, regulatory updates, and technological innovations shaping the future of the personal care industry in Southeast Asia. Notably, the event brought together experts from leading trade associations such as the Association of Indonesia Cosmetics Companies (PPAK), the Indonesian Essential Oil Council (DAI), ASPI Wellness & Spa, Indonesian Cosmetics Association (PERKOSMI), and the Indonesian Packaging Federation (IPF). 

The conference also generated support from business partners who sent their representatives to meet and discuss with the participants: Guangdong Qiaolei Packaging Technology Co., Ltd; Guangzhou Barel Industrial Co., Ltd; Spec-Chem Industry Inc.; Foshan Huihong Plastic Packaging Co. Ltd; Lexa-Mix Dispersion System; Guangzhou Startec Science and Technology Co., Ltd; PT. Beauty Link Biotec; Jinbo Bio-Pharma; Changzhou Huituo Technology Co., Ltd; Shandong Jitai Biotech Co., Ltd; PT Konka Indonesia Trading International; Wellsaga Biotechnology Co., Ltd; and Odyssey Compliance Incorporation (OCI).

Highlights of the summit included insightful presentations on sustainability, green chemistry, clean beauty, and advancements in manufacturing technology, offering invaluable takeaways for industry players. Attendees also had the opportunity to interact with business partners and explore the latest products and services in the personal care sector.

Personal care manufacturing trends unveiled

The summit featured a series of informative sessions, beginning with an opening presentation from Dra. Dewita Agus, the Head of Industry DPP of PPAK Kosmetika. She shared critical insights into the future trajectory of Indonesia's cosmetics industry, setting the stage for a productive and thought-provoking series of talks.

Ms. Alice Wang, Director of Application Research and Development at Spec-Chem Industry Inc., followed with a presentation on the growing importance of clean beauty, exploring green bio-surfactants and their role in the personal care sector. This was followed by the presentation of Ms. Maily, Evaluation Centre Head of renowned Martha Tilaar Group, who discussed the company’s commitment to natural ingredients and sustainability.

Throughout the event, experts from both local companies and international partners presented their perspectives on various aspects of the industry. For instance, Ms. Victoria Zhou, Foreign Trade Salesman from Huituo Technology, discussed high-performance filling and capping machines for personal care products; while Mr. Henky Wibawa, Executive Director of the Indonesian Packaging Federation, addressed circular economy practices in packaging, focusing on sustainability.

The presentation of Ms. Kusuma Ida Anjani, representing ASPI Wellness and Spa and Director of Business Development and Innovation at PT Mustika Ratu, provided an interesting account on natural ingredients for the production of personal care products. Ms. Anjani serves as the Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee for Creative Economy of KADIN and holds an official position in PPAK.  Her extensive experience in business development and innovation within the beaty sector continues to inspire and guide industry advancements.

The presentation of Ms. Viki Xie, Sales Manager of the International Raw Material Department of ShanXi Jinbo Bio-Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. looks at the research and applications of vegan collagen. Her presentation provided valuable insights into the exciting developments in vegan collagen, particularly its applications in personal care manufacturing.  

Mr. Axel Wittek, Founder of Lexa-Mix Dispersion System, provided an information-packed presentation on "Cosmetic Manufacturing Equipment and Environmental Impact - Making Money through Sustainability." Lexa-Mix, a pioneering company in advanced mixing technology, has revolutionised the manufacturing process with cutting-edge vacuum mixers. Mr. Wittek shared his vast experience, spanning from research and development to the commercialisation of these machines, highlighting the intersection of innovation and sustainability in manufacturing practices.

After the afternoon coffee break, the summit resumed with a fascinating session by Ms. Diyah Utami, the Director of Research and Development at Wardah, a well-known Indonesian skincare and cosmetics brand. Her presentation on "Skin Lightening Products for Asian Skin" shared valuable insights into the unique challenges and solutions for formulating skin care products tailored to the diverse skin tones and needs of Asian consumers.

Mr. Allen Li, Deputy General Manager and Sales Director of Shandong Jitai Biotech Co., Ltd., discussed "Peptide Research and Applications from a Global Perspective." Shandong Jitai Biotech specialises in the research and production of peptide-based skincare raw materials. Mr. Li’s session covered the latest innovations in peptide research, emphasizing their transformative potential in skincare products.

An inspiring presentation on environment-friendly and natural organic raw materials was delivered by Mr. Feri Agustian Soleh, a leading figure in the essential oils and aromatherapy industries. Mr. Soleh, who holds key roles in several organisations, including the Indonesian Essential Oil Council (DAI) and the Indonesian Aromatherapy Association (IAA), emphasized the importance of sustainability and natural sourcing in creating effective personal care products.

Mr. Sigit Darmawan, Senior Consultant at Opex Consulting Group, presented on how smart manufacturing technology can help enhance the cost-efficiency of personal care production. With over 24 years of experience in supply chain management and strategic systems, Mr. Darmawan provided valuable guidance on how smart technologies can optimize manufacturing processes, reduce costs, and improve overall production efficiency.

The final presentation of the day was given by Ms. Juanita Aditiawan, the President of the ASEAN Cosmetics Association and Vice President of External Affairs and Business Development of the Indonesian Cosmetics Association (PERKOSMI). With over 20 years of experience in the cosmetics industry, Ms. Aditiawan shared her expertise in brand development, contract manufacturing, and distribution of cosmetics ingredients, shedding light on how the ASEAN cosmetics industry continues to grow and expand on the global stage.

The second day of the summit focused on halal certification and the use of Indonesian botanicals in fragrance creation, showcasing the diversity and innovation within the local industry.  Dr. Muslich, the Halal Partnership and Audit Services Director of The Assessment Institute for Food, Drug, and Cosmetic (LPPOM MUI), took the stage to discuss the critical role of Halal certification in the personal care sector. Meanwhile, Miss Pamela, from the Aroma Fragrance division of PT Indesso Aroma, discussed the creation of fragrances using Indonesian botanicals and other natural ingredients. Her presentation delved into the company’s approach to creating a wide range of fragrances used in everyday products, showcasing how innovation in the fragrance sector contributes to the personal care industry’s growth while staying true to sustainable practices.

The final session of the day was led by Mr. Joey Roi Bondoc, Research Director at Colliers, who focused on the demand drivers of personal care products in ASEAN and its impact on industrial space absorption. Mr. Bondoc specializes in business, political, and macroeconomic analysis. 

Networking to explore business opportunities 

One of the summit’s core objectives was to foster collaboration between industry professionals, and it did so successfully. Networking sessions and hands-on exhibitions allowed delegates to engage with speakers and exhibitors, exchanging ideas and exploring opportunities for partnerships.

The networking cards given to delegates during the Summit provided a fun and interactive way for participants to engage with business partners and enhance networking opportunities. Delegates were encouraged to visit various booths throughout the event, collecting stamps from business partners to qualify for a raffle draw. This initiative not only incentivized collaboration and networking but also allowed participants to connect with key industry players, explore potential partnerships, and discover innovative products and solutions. The raffle draw added an exciting element to the summit, making it an even more engaging experience for all involved.

The summit also featured engaging question and answer sessions, encouraging participants to share their thoughts and queries with experts. As the summit came to a close, delegates were invited to the poolside networking dinner on the first evening, providing an informal yet valuable setting for building relationships.

Final stop: factory visit

Some of the delegates had the exclusive opportunity to visit Shanghai Technology Indonesia in Tangerang, a company producing cosmetics and personal care accessories. The tour included a visit to the Injection Molding Area where the delegates also had the chance to witness firsthand the production process of the company’s high-quality make-up brushes. Following the production area, the delegates were taken to the company’s Exhibition Hall, where they could explore a variety of finished products. The hall showcased the wide range of products that it manufactures, highlighting the company’s diverse capabilities and the effectiveness of their solutions in the personal care industry.

The 2024 ASEAN Personal Care Technology Summit was a resounding success, highlighting the immense potential of Indonesia’s personal care market. As the country continues to embrace innovation and sustainability, it is poised to become a global leader in the production and export of cosmetics and personal care products.

This Summit successfully brought together key players, innovators, and visionaries in the personal care industry, offering a glimpse into the future of the market. As Indonesia’s personal care sector continues to evolve, it is clear that the nation's role in shaping the future of beauty and wellness will only grow stronger. With its vast consumer base, forward-thinking brands, and growing demand for natural products, Indonesia is on the fast track to becoming the leading force in the global personal care industry.