Efficacy and Biotechnology Drive PCHi 2026’s Sustainability Agenda

PCHi 2026, organized by Reed Sinopharm Exhibitions, is set to take place from March 18 to 20, 2026, in Hangzhou, China. This event is the only large-scale professional exhibition in the country dedicated to cosmetic ingredients, linking global technologies with the emerging Asia-Pacific markets. The focus will be on the efficacy and sustainability of beauty products, reflecting rising consumer expectations.

Efficacy and Biotechnology in Personal Care

The theme for PCHi 2026 centers around clinically proven efficacy and sophisticated delivery technologies. This aligns with the demands of educated consumers who increasingly scrutinize ingredient lists and seek evidence of product performance. Peter Liu, director of the Cosmetics Business Unit at RSE, notes that the Chinese cosmetics market is anticipated to reach ¥1.1 trillion by 2025, solidifying China’s position as a major player in the Asia-Pacific beauty industry.

Key Participation and Innovations

• More than 850 companies from 26 countries will exhibit at PCHi 2026.
• Exhibitors will represent various sectors, including raw materials, laboratory services, and packaging.
• Over 20 companies plan to launch new global or China-exclusive products at the event.

Julia Kang, the China marketing manager at Lucas Meyer Cosmetics by Clariant, emphasizes the importance of sustainability and innovative ingredient formulations. Companies will showcase biotechnology advancements to meet consumer demand for natural, clinically proven solutions.

Trends in Efficacy-Driven Innovation

The industry is increasingly focused on achieving fast, visible results through scientifically validated ingredients. Carol Cao from Clariant notes that this trend is crucial for brands launching products based on new dermatological research. Innovation in personal care is heavily influenced by a deep understanding of skin science.

Emerging Technologies and Delivery Systems

PCHi will reflect advancements in the delivery of active ingredients. Technologies such as encapsulation and micellar systems are being utilized to enhance bioavailability and performance. For instance, Clariant’s Lysofix Liquid has been developed through blue biotechnology and promises rapid, visible results. Similarly, Givaudan’s advanced micro-encapsulation system improves the stability and delivery of active ingredients.

Sustainability as a Core Value

Sustainability has transformed from a mere initiative to a necessity within the beauty industry. PCHi 2026 will feature a dedicated Sustainability Zone and the Sustainability in Beauty Forum, where experts will discuss green formulations and packaging. Companies are adopting biodegradable, vegan materials, demonstrating their commitment to environmentally friendly practices.

Future Directions in the Chinese Beauty Market

The upcoming innovations and trends showcased at PCHi highlight China’s future in the beauty sector. Givaudan plans to present precision brightening solutions focused on the biological science behind skin tone regulation. Robust government policies are also expected to accelerate growth in the personal care industry by streamlining ingredient approvals and promoting scientific research.

Liu highlights China’s potential for further market expansion, projecting a GDP growth of around 5% in 2025 and a total GDP that could reach 140 trillion yuan. This environment fosters high-quality expansion and helps position China as a trendsetter in Asia-Pacific’s beauty market.