GS1 Philippines, a leading organization on local barcode standards, has conducted seminars with the Chamber of Cosmetics Industry of the Philippines (CCIP) to support the retail industry growth and innovation in the Philippines. The workshops focused on promoting barcode awareness, integrating legitimate and streamlined barcode systems in products, and navigating the global migration to 2D barcodes. Representatives from various cosmetics companies in the country attended the seminars.

“The country’s cosmetic industry is worth over $1 billion, and demand continues to grow. At CCIP, we aim to enhance the industry’s global competitiveness by ensuring product authenticity, providing comprehensive product information, and combating counterfeit products, which are crucial for consumer confidence. We are working hand in hand with GS1 Philippines to continue realizing this commitment,” CCIP Former President and GS1 Philippines Corporate Secretary Anna Marie Anastacio said.

The beauty and personal care market in the Philippines is projected to generate USD 6.47 billion in revenue in 2024, with an annual growth rate estimated at 1.32% until 2028. However, the cosmetics industry faces significant challenges, notably the prevalence of counterfeit products. Recently, banned beauty items have been spotted and sold in local shops in Taguig. In 2023, cosmetic products were among the counterfeit goods seized by the Bureau of Customs. 

Efforts to combat this issue are ongoing, with local government units and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issuing advisories and taking measures to ensure product authenticity and consumer safety.

By adopting GS1 standards and leveraging barcode technology, cosmetics companies can ensure product authenticity, improve inventory management, and strengthen consumer trust. GS1 standards offer a framework for precise product identification and tracking, while the 1D linear barcode and the 2D code facilitate the capture of detailed product information.

Through conducting seminars and other industry activities, GS1 Philippines aims to address challenges by providing industry professionals with the tools and knowledge needed to enhance product traceability and transparency for their businesses and consumers. 

“We at GS1 Philippines are a proud partner of CCIP to strengthen operational efficiency and consumer confidence in the cosmetics sector. With the evolving beauty landscape and Filipino beauty brands continuing to rise globally, authenticity and the availability of accurate product information are essential for fostering a more reliable and accountable marketplace,” GS1 Philippines President Roberto ”Bobby” Claudio said.

GS1 Philippines remains committed to supporting the cosmetics industry through continuous education and promotion of global standards. The organization aims to prepare local industries for the worldwide shift to 2D barcodes by 2027, aligning with international standards and enhancing the Philippines’ competitiveness in the global market.

To learn more about GS1 Philippines’ implementation of the GS1 barcode, membership, and seminar, visit https://www.gs1ph.org/ or email membership@gs1ph.org.