Ethiopia’s personal care sector is experiencing rapid growth and the government is undertaking a number of initiatives to improve access. Jonathan Dyson reports from Addis Ababa
With Africa's second largest population (around 85 million) and one of the world's fastest growing economies (expanding 7% annually over recent years), the potential of Ethiopia as a market for cosmetics products is beginning to be realised by the personal care products industry worldwide. Indeed, sales of a wide range of cosmetics are growing rapidly with both domestic and international cosmetics brands benefitting.
The total value of the cosmetics market in Ethiopia reached $25m in the 12 months up to June 2012, according to figures from the country’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, with the average growth rate over the last three years at 10%. Imported products account for around 90% of the market, with the remaining 10% sourced from domestic manufacturers.