The cosmetics industry is evolving into a more holistic structure, driven by shifting consumer expectations, scientific advances and a growing focus on sustainability. This transformation goes beyond product launches and now includes ethical formulations, neuroscience-driven research and environmentally conscious production models.
Against this backdrop, the 9th International Cosmetics Congress was launched with high attendance at Titanic Deluxe Belek in Antalya. The event, organized by the Association of Cosmetics Manufacturers and Researchers (KÜAD), serves as a strategic platform for discussing next-generation approaches to cosmetics that combine science, nature, ethical production and sensory experience.
Thanks to its growing international participation and multi-stakeholder structure, the congress highlights Turkey’s position in the global cosmetics industry. It shows that the country stands out not only for its production capacity but also for its contributions to knowledge creation, innovation and sustainability.
Opening Speeches Highlight the Industry's Strategic Future
Opening remarks were delivered by Avni Dilber, Director General of Consumer Protection and Market Surveillance at the Ministry of Trade; Adil Pelister, Chairman of IKMIB (Istanbul Chemicals and Chemical Products Exporters' Association); Mehmet Ali Tombalak, Chairman of TÜBİSAD (Informatics Industry Association of Turkey); Levent Kahrıman, Chairman of KÜAD; and Fuat Arslan, Congress Chair and KÜAD Board Member.
Avni Dilber emphasized the urgent need for industries to adapt quickly to global change. He stated,
"In today’s fast-paced global competition, survival depends on how quickly industries can adapt. It is no longer the big fish that swallows the small one; instead, the fast fish outpaces the slow. While our core mission is to protect consumers, we believe that effective consumer protection also depends on supporting the sectors themselves. When products meet high standards and comply with regulations, both citizens and industries benefit. Today, nearly 75% of advertising takes place on digital platforms, making it essential to regulate this space. Therefore, we plan to implement new regulations covering artificial intelligence, influencer marketing and targeted advertising in the near future."
iç mekan, Konferans salonu, giyim, Toplantı içeren bir resim
Yapay zeka tarafından oluşturulmuş içerik yanlış olabilir.
Adil Pelister noted that holistic cosmetics represent a strategic priority for the chemical and cosmetics industries, rather than a temporary trend. He said,
"For us, holistic cosmetics are not just a passing trend. They represent a strategic necessity shaping the future of the chemical and cosmetics sectors. As Turkey’s chemical industry becomes a key driver of exports, cosmetics and personal care products are playing an increasingly central role. Evolving consumer expectations now demand clean formulations, scientific credibility, transparent supply chains and low environmental impact. Our 2050 vision for the chemical industry includes sustainable production, science- and technology-focused R&D investments and the global rise of Turkish cosmetic brands. At IKMIB, we support this transformation through initiatives such as our Chemistry Technology Center and other structures rooted in science, ethics and sustainability."
Mehmet Ali Tombalak highlighted that the chemical industry is in fact progressing more strongly than the technology sector, despite common perceptions.
"Turkey’s chemical industry has a market size of approximately 80 billion dollars and export figures nearing 30 billion dollars. In contrast, the technology sector's exports remain around 3.5 billion dollars. This clearly shows that technology should be seen not only as a sector in itself but as a transformative tool for adding value in areas where we are already strong. Examples from Europe demonstrate that with the right strategy and scale, tech exports can grow rapidly. Artificial intelligence, following the rise of internet and mobile technologies, is now driving a third major wave of transformation. If Turkey approaches this transformation with a mindset of integration rather than competition, we can create globally recognized brands in strong sectors like cosmetics and chemicals."
"Value, Not Just Volume" Defines Success in Cosmetics
Levent Kahrıman, Chairman of KÜAD, stated that success in the cosmetics industry is no longer measured solely by production or sales volume.
"What truly matters is how sustainable, trustworthy and meaningful the value we create is. Since our establishment, KÜAD has supported a vision that unites market price with deeper value. The holistic cosmetics approach is a natural outcome of this vision. It is not a trend but a lasting transformation for the sector. With its scientific infrastructure, manufacturing capabilities and natural resources, Turkey is well-positioned to lead this shift. We see this congress as a gathering point for shared wisdom that will help shape the future of the industry."
Holistic Cosmetics as a Long-Term Industry Shift
Fuat Arslan, Chair of the International Cosmetics Congress, emphasized that holistic cosmetics reflect a permanent change in industry philosophy.
"Holistic cosmetics are not just a temporary trend. They represent a long-term paradigm shift in the beauty sector. Today’s consumer wants more than just to look good. They want to feel good, maintain balance and trust what they use. This approach embraces beauty as a union of body, mind and spirit while aligning science, nature and ethical production on a shared foundation. It transforms not only formulations but also the entire ecosystem, from production and packaging to supply chains and consumer relationships. The ancient healing traditions and natural richness of Anatolia, when reinterpreted through scientific methods, give Turkish cosmetics a unique global identity. Turkey holds a strong position in this field thanks not only to its production strength but also its philosophy and accumulated knowledge. We envisioned this congress as a strategic platform to shape a shared vision for the industry. We believe this gathering represents an important milestone in telling the story of Turkish cosmetics to the world."
About KÜAD
The Association of Cosmetics Manufacturers and Researchers (KÜAD) is dedicated to fostering the development of high value-added cosmetic products that respect both human and environmental health. The association works to raise public awareness about conscious cosmetics use and aims to position Turkey’s cosmetic industry and scientists as global leaders in the field.
Website: www.kozmetikkongresi.com
