Japan Cosmetic Center, a non-profit organization was founded shortly after the French Cosmetic Valley signed Karatsu City's Cooperation Agreement in 2013.
The main ambition of the center is to develop a business cluster in the city's natural cosmetics industry and to introduce Japan's natural cosmetic business to the rest of the world.
Taking a cue from Paris' Cosmetic Valley, home to makeup product plant growers, manufacturers and R&D facilities, the city of Karatsu, Japan, is building the beginnings of a similar cosmetics industry hub.
As the latest addition to 147 institutions, Mirai Clinical, is a natural skin and body care company whose products are based on Japanese beauty principles.
The brand produces and distributes cosmetics that fuse traditional Japanese ingredients with advanced science to provide superior quality personal care experiences in the U.S.
"As the only American member of JCC, Mirai Clinical is committed to introducing the greatness of Japanese cosmetics to the U.S. by working closely with local Japanese ingredient manufacturers (organic farmers), R&D institutes, and production teams with the highest standards. Our newest formulations will continue to be developed and produced in Japan as part of our alignment with the JCC," says Koko Hayashi, CEO of Mirai Clinical.
Asia's consumers are becoming more interested in greener cosmetics
It's nothing new to say that Asia's consumers prioritize price and texture when choosing and indeed remaining loyal to a beauty brand. However, shoppers are becoming less passive towards eco-friendly products, increasingly prioritizing greener formulations and packaging concepts.
In 2014, market researcher Nielsen reported online consumers across 60 countries as willing to pay more for products and services provided by companies that are committed to positive social and environmental impact.
Of those findings, the firm reported 'the propensity to buy socially responsible brands' is strongest in Asia-Pacific (64%), Latin America (63%) and Middle East/Africa (63%). The numbers for North America and Europe were 42 and 40 per cent, respectively.
And while many parts of Asia still have a way to go in equipping themselves to completely switch to greener processes, Japan is reported to be leading the way, striving to be more ecological or socially responsible in its efforts.
This includes sustainability claims on packaging or actively promoting greener actions through marketing efforts.