China Perfume Market

China Perfume Market Size and Share:

The China perfume market size was valued at USD 6,527.70 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 9,394.37 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.13% during 2025-2033. The market is fueled by changing consumer tastes, specifically among the younger generations who prefer distinctive, personalized fragrances that define their identity. The growth of niche and craft perfumes is also aided by robust social media presence, primarily on platforms such as Xiaohongshu and Douyin. Growing disposable incomes and changing perceptions about luxury also encourage consumers to become inclined toward premium offerings, including both international and culturally inspired locally developed brands, which is further fueling the China perfume market share.

The market is growing due to the changing consumption pattern, especially among the younger demographics like Gen Z and millennials. These consumers are increasingly looking for customized and distinctive fragrances that reflect their personal personalities. This paradigm shift towards personalization has fueled an increase in demand for artisanal and niche perfumes as consumers turn their backs on mass-produced fragrances. Moreover, the increasing reach of social media platforms such as Xiaohongshu (Little Red Book) and Douyin (TikTok China) has made it easy to discover and market these niche brands, bringing them to wider audiences and ensuring a loyal base of customers. The focus on individuality and self-expression is transforming the China perfume market outlook, challenging brands to innovate and respond to the varied tastes of the contemporary consumer.

Another powerful driver is rising disposable income and evolving attitudes to luxury among Chinese consumers. With the growth in the middle class, more people have the money to spend on high-end and luxury perfumes. This change is not only observable in the demand for upscale international brands but also in the demand for local brands that have integrated traditional Chinese elements into their offerings. These brands appeal to consumers looking for authenticity and cultural relevance in their perfume decisions. In addition, fragrances are more and more considered a perfect gift, which adds to their popularity and sales. The alignment of factors like that of disposable income, the need for cultural authenticity, and the understanding of fragrance as luxury, has been conducive for the perfume market to flourish in China.

China Perfume Market Trends:

Rising Disposable Incomes

According to industry reports, as the Chinese economy continues to grow and expand its middle class (which gives some 300 Million people much more purchasing power than before), per capita disposable income in China was Yuan 11,539 by Q1 2024, which is about an increase of 6.2%. With higher disposable incomes people have more expenditure capability to spend on luxury items, such as high-end perfumes. This transformation is more pronounced in cities, where economic development happens rapidly. Sales are occurring based on the survival of consumers, and also their notion for designer products which make quality life. Luxury is no longer a monopoly of perfume and liquid essence it has become a must-have for most people as part of self-expression and grooming process. Concurrently, the availability of an array of international perfume brands in China has been bolstered and these consumers have welcomed such products for their growing sophistication.

Increasing Urbanization and Lifestyle Changes

As reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the urbanization rate of China rose by 55.52 percentage points, hitting 66.16% by the close of 2023, in comparison to its status at the end of 1949. Rapid urbanization in China has altered the lifestyle of its population, which in turn is contributing to the increase in demand for personal grooming products, such as perfumes. But as people moved from rural areas to cities, they became exposed to new cultural norms and consumer behaviors. Disposable income for urbanites is higher and they are hence more exposed to global trends, which widens the use of perfume as an everyday grooming product. Moreover, urban settings frequently incorporate social meetings and work in topographical regions where presenting oneself can represent the deciding moment of professional opportunity, the perfume one wears, becomes one of the necessary markers of identity and personality.

Influence of Western Culture

The influence of Western culture in China has played a pivotal role in shaping consumer preferences, particularly influencing the China perfume market growth. This cultural exchange is facilitated through various channels, including media, entertainment, and travel. Western movies, TV shows, and fashion trends have introduced Chinese consumers to the concept of using perfume as an integral part of personal grooming and self-expression. Additionally, the growing number of Chinese tourists traveling abroad has exposed them to global lifestyles and luxury brands, further fueling the desire for Western-style perfumes. The China Tourism Academy predicts that outbound trips from China will total 130 Million in 2024, reflecting a strong recovery in global travel among Chinese tourists. This exposure has led to a greater appreciation for the artistry and prestige associated with Western perfume brands. As a result, there is a heightened demand for both high-end and designer perfumes that are popular in the West. Moreover, the Western emphasis on individuality and uniqueness resonates with Chinese consumers, who are increasingly seeking products that reflect their personal identity and style. 

China Perfume Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the China perfume market, along with forecasts at the regional and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on perfume type, category, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Perfume Type:

• Premium Perfume Products
• Mass Perfume Products

Luxury perfume products in China are gaining popularity as consumers increasingly link fragrance with social status, luxury, and personal identity. This category consists of designer and niche scents that include exclusivity, better-quality ingredients, and elegant branding. Demand is driven by wealthy consumers and a heightened value placed on artisanal craftsmanship. Global prestige brands and newer local brands are riding this trend by providing culturally relevant fragrances and individualized experiences, usually sold by high-end retailing channels and influencer-based online outlets.

Mass perfume lines appeal to a wider audience in China, providing affordability and accessibility without compromising variety or trendiness. These perfumes are frequently retailed through supermarkets, websites, and beauty stores, finding appeal especially among younger consumers or first-time purchasers. Although they might not carry the prestige of high-end products, mass perfumes are sought after for daily use because of their value and convenience. Brands within this category usually emphasize colorful packaging, fashionable fragrances, and active promotion to keep customers engaged.

Analysis by Category:

• Female Fragrances
• Male Fragrances
• Unisex Fragrances

Fragrances for women are popular due to increasing women's interest in self-care, beauty, and personal expression. Floral, fruit, and oriental fragrances are particularly popular, reflecting international trends and local tastes. Promotional campaigns typically highlight refinement, romance, and uniqueness, focusing on young urban consumers. Celebrities and influencers are at the forefront in influencing buying behavior, while global and local brands keep launching new lines of products to meet the changing tastes and seasonal needs of the female consumers.

Male fragrances are increasingly taking up a major part of the market share in China as grooming and personal care becomes a more familiar part of male identity and lifestyle. Contemporary Chinese men, especially young urban professionals, are using fragrances as a means of self-expression and sophistication. Woody, aquatic, and spicy scents are commonly preferred in this category. Moreover, companies are spending on targeted campaigns and gender-relevant packaging to lure this emerging segment. The growth of male beauty influencers also serves to mainstream fragrance use to a wider male audience.

Unisex fragrances are a rapidly developing category in China, attracting shoppers looking for streamlined, adaptable, and genderless fragrance options. The scents tend to incorporate clean, unisex profiles such as citrus, musk, and herbal nuances, rendering them accessible to everyone regardless of gender or occasion. Their attractiveness resides in minimalism, uniqueness, and openness to all—concepts valued by younger, open-minded consumers. Both mainstream and niche brands are broadening their unisex offerings to address demand, with online channels and boutique retailing experiences assisting in increasing their visibility and appeal.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Offline
• Online

Offline channels are poised to continue being an essential distribution method as per the China perfume market forecast, especially for high-end and luxury brands where the quality of in-store experience matters. Department stores, beauty shops, and brand stores enable customers to try the perfume before they buy and benefit from personalized assistance, thus boosting purchase confidence. Offline channels also facilitate brand narratives through interactive displays and high-end product launches. While digital channels are on the rise, the sensory and tactile quality of perfume makes consumers prefer bricks-and-mortar locations, particularly in significant metropolitan areas.

Online distribution has grown quickly within China's fragrance market, spearheaded by online platforms such as Tmall, JD.com, and social e-commerce apps Xiaohongshu and Douyin. The channel has broad accessibility, convenience, and regular promotions and is particularly suited to younger shoppers. Livestreaming, influencer testimonials, and digital scent discovery functions are also becoming part of the digital shopping process. Online sales facilitate mass and niche brands to reach wider audiences and establish brand presence in a competitive market environment.

Regional Analysis:

• North China
• East China
• South Central China
• Southwest China
• Northwest China
• Northeast China

North China, which encompasses Beijing and Tianjin, has high demand for luxury perfumes because of its urban, high-income population. The region is served by high-end shopping malls and department stores promoting brand name visibility, and consumers are inclined toward international, upscale fragrances. Openness to culture in the region instigates desire for international perfume trends.

East China, particularly Shanghai, is a perfume consumption stronghold, with cosmopolitan preferences merged with purchasing power. It is home to flagship stores, luxury department stores, and innovation-led brands. Consumers in the East China region are trend-conscious, driving demand for both international brands and high-end domestic perfume products.

South Central China, such as provinces Guangdong and Hunan, is home to a young, fashion-aware consumer base. With good economic expansion and high mobile penetration, web perfume sales are buoyant in the region. The market accommodates both mass-market and premium offerings, with demand for unisex and niche fragrances increasing.

Southwest China, in regions such as Sichuan and Chongqing, represents a growing opportunity for perfumes. Urbanization and growing incomes are driving fragrances adoption. Consumers are inquisitive toward new brands, particularly online but increasingly offline within larger cities within the region as well.

Northwest China, which includes Xinjiang and Gansu, is still an emerging market with more gradual adoption of perfumes than coastal areas. Yet growing retail infrastructure and rising internet penetration are facilitating market penetration. Demand is increasing gradually, especially among younger consumers who are impacted by social media and national brand advertising campaigns.

North East China, which includes Liaoning and Heilongjiang, boasts a firm foundation of existing perfume consumers. Market development is being driven by economic revitalization, with sales generated by offline retail and provincial malls. These consumers tend to prefer familiar long-lasting fragrances and are gradually warming up to the exploration of premium and niche products.

Competitive Landscape:

Major players in China's fragrance market are adopting strategic measures to leverage the industry's high growth and changing consumer tastes. Global brands are making more investments in domestic fragrance firms to expand their market share and meet the distinct tastes of Chinese consumers. For example, Estée Lauder purchased Melt Season, a Chinese luxury perfume brand, hoping to capitalize on increasing demand for culturally relevant products. At the same time, local brands are capturing attention by highlighting cultural stories and native ingredients. To Summer and Documents, among others, are integrating traditional Chinese themes into fragrance and packaging to appeal to younger consumers who prefer cultural authenticity. These brands are also using social media platforms like Xiaohongshu and Douyin to connect with their target consumers and create brand visibility. In addition, companies are also enriching the retail experience with new-age technologies. Yves Saint Laurent, for instance, launched a neuro-connected perfume finder in its stores, with personalized fragrance recommendations based on emotional reactions. This strategy enriches the customer experience and also helps to build more meaningful relationships between consumers and brands. When combined together, these initiatives represent a coordinated effort by major players to define the future direction of China's burgeoning perfume industry.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the China perfume market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

Latest News and Developments:

• March 2025: CHICMAX's KANS announced the launch of the Hongyun Fragrance series, marking its entry into the perfume market. Set to debut by year-end, the lineup includes fragrances, candles, solid perfumes, and diffusers, expanding KANS' portfolio beyond skincare into a broader beauty and lifestyle segment.
• January 2025: IFF launched the China Scent Exploration Program, combining AI and cultural insights to develop fragrances tailored for Chinese consumers. The initiative analyzes historical influences, consumer preferences, and olfactive trends, supporting brands in creating authentic, market-specific scents while leveraging IFF’s Shanghai Creative Center for innovation.
• October 2024: In Shanghai, Givaudan opened L'Appartement 125, a Fine Fragrance Creative Center that encourages collaboration with Chinese companies. Featuring a laboratory, interactive fragrance wall, and sensory garden, it supports premium fragrance development, aligning with Givaudan’s 2025 strategy to expand in the Haute Parfumerie market.
• June 2024: Brunello Cucinelli launched its women’s and men’s perfumes in China. Crafted by Daphné Bugey, the women’s fragrance features pink pepper, bergamot, citrus, orange blossom, cedar, vetiver, amber, musk, woodsy notes, and a distinctive sweet chestnut scent, marking the brand’s expansion into the fragrance market.
• March 2024: Atelier Cologne Paris relaunched in China's high-end perfumery market, debuting in Shanghai’s IFC mall, Beijing’s SKP mall, and Tmall. The revamp features reworked fragrances, redesigned bottles inspired by Art Nouveau, and immersive retail spaces, aiming to generate EUR 100 Million in first-year sales.

China Perfume Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the China perfume market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global China perfume market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the China perfume industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.