The UK’s cosmetics industry association has raised serious concerns about the potential exit of Britain from the European Union (EU) after news of a referendum to be held by 31 December 2017.
Dr Chris Flower, Director-General of the UK’s CTPA (Cosmetic, Toiletry & Perfumery Association) said the British cosmetics industry would face a number of significant difficulties if Britain were to exit the EU – the so-called ‘Brexit’ option.
A UK government statement has stressed that “ahead of the referendum, Prime Minister [David Cameron] will discuss with EU leaders how the UK can work with partners to reform the EU and renegotiate our relationship with it”. If that does not work and if voters choose to leave the EU, Dr Flower said: “It is important to keep in mind that the largest export market for the UK cosmetics industry is the EU. Not being able to benefit from the EU single market could therefore have a significant impact on the UK cosmetics industry.”