The gateway to West Africa’s beauty industry, worth hundreds of millions in imports, will swing open this April in Abidjan, offering global brands a direct line to one of the continent’s most dynamic consumer markets.

From April 16 to 18, 2026, Abidjan will transform into the epicenter of West Africa’s beauty industry as it hosts the International Cosmetics, Beauty & Hygiene (CBH) Exhibition. Held at the Parc des Expositions d’Abidjan, the expo arrives at a pivotal moment for a region experiencing explosive growth in consumer demand for beauty and personal care products.

For global brands and investors, the event represents a strategic gateway into a lucrative market. Côte d’Ivoire, the host nation, is one of the fastest-growing economies in West Africa, fueled by a young, urbanizing population and an expanding middle class with increasing disposable income. The expo is more than a trade show; it’s a critical platform for forging the partnerships that will define the next chapter of Africa’s beauty sector.

The Market Opportunity: A Landscape Primed for Growth

The numbers tell a compelling story. The cosmetics and beauty sector in Côte d’Ivoire alone saw imports valued at over $100 million in 2023, with demand projected to rise to approximately $133 million by 2026. This growth is not isolated. Across the region, Nigeria imports over $1.1 billion in beauty products annually, highlighting the scale of the continental opportunity.

Currently, the Ivorian market remains heavily reliant on imports, with around 80% of beauty products sourced internationally from countries like Togo, France, Germany, and Italy. This dependency creates a significant opening for new market entrants. The landscape features a mix of global giants like Mac and Maybelline alongside ambitious local companies such as SIVOP and Nouvelle Parfumerie Ghandour, indicating a vibrant and competitive environment.

· Key Market Drivers: A young demographic, rising middle class, and growing urbanization.
· Major Product Segments: Skincare, haircare, makeup, fragrances, personal hygiene, and beauty tech.
· Regional Gateway: Abidjan serves as a commercial hub for accessing neighboring West African markets.

Why CBH Expo 2026 is the Premier Industry Hub

Organized by ATLM Expo, a veteran firm with nearly three decades of experience in 35 countries, the CBH Expo is designed to be a catalyst for business. It moves beyond a simple showcase to offer structured, results-driven engagement.

For exhibitors, the value proposition is clear. The event offers direct access to a pre-qualified network of over 400 hosted buyers and more than 4,300 professional visitors from at least nine countries. A dedicated B2B meeting program facilitates efficient connections with distributors, major retailers, and pharmacy chains actively seeking new brands.

The expo also serves as a critical knowledge center. Through panel discussions, case studies, and live demonstrations, attendees will gain insights into regional consumer trends, regulatory landscapes, and the rising demand for innovation in areas like natural ingredients, sustainable practices, and Afro-beauty-specific products.

A Continent on Display: The Pan-African Beauty Ecosystem

The CBH Expo in Abidjan is a key node in a rapidly expanding network of beauty trade events across Africa, reflecting the continent’s sector-wide boom.

Major Continental Beauty Expos in 2026

· CBH Expo
· Location: Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
· Date: April 16-18, 2026
· Focus: Gateway to Francophone West Africa’s import-driven market.

· Beauty Show West Africa
· Location: Accra, Ghana
· Date: April 16-18, 2026
· Focus: Ghana’s role as a major regional hub.

· Beauty West Africa
· Location: Lagos, Nigeria
· Date: November 24-26, 2026
· Focus: Africa’s largest economy and beauty import market.

· Beauty Africa Expo

This calendar allows brands to strategically plan a market entry roadmap across different African regions. Success at one expo can pave the way for expansion into neighboring markets, leveraging platforms like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which simplifies cross-border commerce.

Seizing the Moment: A Call to Action for Global Brands

Testimonials from similar events underscore the tangible business outcomes. Exhibitors at the Lagos-based Beauty West Africa have reported securing large orders and finding distribution partners within days of the event opening. As one exhibitor from Poland noted, exhibiting was “a great decision as we have built new relationships and know that we will be selling our products in West Africa very soon”.

For international brands, the opportunity is twofold. First, to meet the existing demand for high-quality imported products that Ivorian consumers actively seek. Second, to engage in the long-term development of local manufacturing and sourcing, moving the market up the value chain. The Ivorian government supports this shift with incentives like tax reductions and customs facilitation for investors.

As stated by the organizers, the CBH Expo is designed to be “a catalyst for long-term business growth and innovation,” bringing together global leaders and local stakeholders to shape the future of beauty in West Africa.

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For brands ready to explore one of the world’s most promising beauty markets, the path forward is clear. The CBH Expo 2026 offers a unique, consolidated platform for market entry, partnership, and growth. With strategic planning and a commitment to understanding the nuanced African consumer, the potential for success is substantial.

To learn more or to secure a presence at the expo, contact the organizers: ATLM Expo at +225 07 16 91 55 00 or abidjan@atilimfuar.com.