Indonesia's cosmetic contract manufacturing industry grows

The growth of interest in establishing personal skincare and cosmetic brands is driving the expansion of the contract manufacturing (maklon) industry in Indonesia. As many entrepreneurs lack their own production facilities, research laboratories, or regulatory knowledge, manufacturing services provide a solution by handling technical processes while owners focus on marketing.

According to Melinda W of Global Laboratory, developing a legal cosmetic product involves a structured series of stages. This process begins with concept consultation and market positioning, followed by research and development (R&D) to create formulas that meet market trends. The products then undergo quality evaluation and stability testing to ensure color, aroma, and texture remain consistent during distribution.

A critical final step is obtaining legal clearance from BPOM (the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority). This requires comprehensive documentation of formulas, raw material specifications, and production data to ensure consumer safety and legal compliance before mass production and market entry.