Japan Updates Industry Classification for Skincare Cosmetics

2026-01-22 00:00:00

Specialty Chemicals Insights

This article explains Japan's Standard Industrial Classification for the makeup and skincare cosmetics manufacturing sector, detailing its industry codes, business scope, representative examples, and exclusions. It provides businesses with a standardized reference for market analysis and strategic planning in Japan's cosmetics industry.

Businesses seeking to navigate the cosmetics industry's complex landscape often struggle to find authoritative classification standards. When conducting market analysis or strategic planning, cosmetic manufacturers require precise industry categorization to accurately identify target markets.

This article examines Japan's Standard Industrial Classification (revised October 2013 by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications) to provide clarity on the "Makeup and Skincare Cosmetics Manufacturing" sector, offering businesses valuable insights for strategic decision-making.

Industry Classification and Codes

According to Japan's Standard Industrial Classification, makeup and skincare cosmetics manufacturing falls under:

Major Division: E - Manufacturing
Medium Division: 16 - Chemical Industry
Minor Division: 166 - Cosmetics, Toothpaste, and Other Toiletry Manufacturing
Detailed Division: 1661 - Makeup and Skincare Cosmetics Manufacturing (including perfumes and colognes)

Scope of Business Activities

This classification encompasses manufacturers producing:

Makeup products: Foundation, lipstick, and other color cosmetics
Skincare products: Moisturizers, toners, facial cleansers, and other skin treatment formulations
Fragrances: Perfumes and colognes of various scent profiles

Representative Business Examples

Typical enterprises in this category include:

Makeup product manufacturers
Skincare product manufacturers
Perfume producers
Cologne manufacturers

Exclusions from This Classification

The following product categories fall under separate classifications:

Hair care products: Shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes (classified under 1662)
Sun protection products: Sunscreens, after-sun treatments (classified under 1669)
Hair removal products: Depilatory creams and solutions (classified under 1669)
Soap products: Cleaning soaps (classified under 1642)

Implementation Notes

This classification system provides standardized industry segmentation for business analysis. Companies should carefully assess their product lines and operations when determining proper classification. The system serves as an important reference for market research, competitive analysis, and strategic planning within Japan's cosmetics industry.

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