Consumer Health in Asia Pacific

Delivery

This report comes in PPT.

Key findings

“Fourth meal” concept gaining ground among Chinese consumers

The “fourth meal” concept, which refers to taking vitamins and dietary supplements daily as a fourth meal, has gained traction among Chinese consumers, especially the younger generation. Products to boost immunity or to address long-COVID symptoms have become “go-to” supplements in people’s pursuit of health, helping to drive dynamic development.

Value-added products popular among Japanese consumers

A key growth strategy for consumer health in Japan is investing in the creation of value-added, higher-priced products that can overcome the negative impact of the country’s ongoing population decline. This is boosting the popularity of products containing multiple active ingredients or higher doses of active ingredients.

E-commerce share closing in on a third of consumer health value sales

While pharmacies still lead consumer health retail distribution, the e-commerce channel is hot on their tail. There is continuing trust in pharmacies and pharmacists, with consumers valuing the sales advice and product recommendations they can get at such outlets. However, the e-commerce share reached 42% in China in 2023, rising to 81% in sports nutrition, with the latter boosted by interest-driven e-commerce platforms like Douyin and cross-border sales.

Growth expected for weight management in South Korea

With rising obesity rates and the increasing number of consumers suffering from diabetes in South Korea, with a notable share among the younger demographic, demand for weight management products is expected to see further growth over the forecast period as consumers look to take control of their health and reduce the burden on the healthcare system.