Nars makeup lovers around the world have threatened to boycott the company over its decision to start testing its products on animals in order to go into the lucrative Chinese market.
In a bid to placate fans, Nars, that has marketed its cruelty-free practices in america and Europe for several years, took to Instagram having a post explaining its decision.
“We would like you to understand that we hear you,” the company said.
“The global elimination of animal testing must happen. We firmly think that product and ingredient safety could be proven by non-animal methods, but we must comply with the neighborhood laws from the markets by which we operate, including in China.
“We decided to make Nars available in China because we feel it is important to bring our vision of beauty and artistry to fans in the area.
“NARS doesn't test on animals or ask others to do so on our behalf, except where required by law.”
Nars, a French company founded by make-up artist and photographer Francois Nars in 1994 and bought by Shiseido in 2000, officially entered the Chinese market recently.
According to some recent report through the US Department of Commerce, China's personal care and cosmetics market was worth approximately US$50 billion in 2022 and is expected to grow seven to 10 % annually for at least the next five years.
“China is projected being the biggest market for personal care and cosmetics products globally in the next five to ten years,” reports the Asia Personal Care & Cosmetics Market Guide 2022.
“Multinational companies still dominate the personal care products market in China, with nine of the top largest sellers across categories being foreign companies.
“The three largest sellers in China currently are Procter and Gamble, L'Oreal and Shiseido.
“This trend is also reflected in domestic production, with over 80 % of merchandise produced via foreign-owned or joint ventures.”
Despite its move into China, Nars told Instagram followers it is “committed and actively working to advance alternative testing methods.”
“We are proud to aid the Institute for In Vitro Sciences, a globally recognised organisation at the forefront of advancing non-animal methods in China and around the world.
“Nars is hopeful that together, we are able to work toward a cruelty-free world.”
