Palm Angels to Launch Fragrance Line, Xiaomi Reports Strong Q1 Results and Kwai Posts Q1 Revenue

2025 China Conference of Cosmetics Science and Technology Held in Yunnan

The 2025 China Conference of Cosmetics Science and Technology was held in Kunming on May 22, focusing on scientific innovation in China’s cosmetics industry. Experts from companies like Botanee group, Proya, Bloomage Biotech, and Guyu presented new developments in areas such as plant-based ingredients, synthetic biotechnology, anti-aging peptides, and skin cell regulation. The event highlighted China’s push toward integrating native resources and advanced research to shape a distinct presence in the global cosmetics market.

Pola Orbis to Shut Down Chinese Subsidiary Amid Strategic Shift

Japanese cosmetics group Pola Orbis has announced the closure and liquidation of its Chinese subsidiary, Orbis Commerce (Beijing), citing persistent losses and intensified e-commerce competition. This move aligns with the company’s “Vision 2029” strategy to optimize its global brand portfolio. Despite the shutdown, Pola Orbis continues operating in China through other subsidiaries, with Orbis products still available on major platforms. The group aims to reallocate resources to brands and regions with stronger growth potential.

Xiaomi Reports Strong Q1 2025 Results with Revenue and Profit Surges

Xiaomi posted Q1 2025 revenue of 111.3 billion RMB, up 47.4 percent year-on-year, with adjusted net profit reaching 10.7 billion RMB. Core smartphone and AIoT business revenue hit 92.7 billion RMB, while smart EV and AI-related businesses generated 18.6 billion RMB. Xiaomi SU7 deliveries reached 75,869 units in the quarter. IoT products, large home appliances, and internet services all showed solid growth. R&D spending rose 30.1 percent to 6.7 billion RMB, with 21,731 R&D staff and over 43,000 global patents reported.

PDD Q1 2025 Earnings Miss Forecasts as Profit Drops Amid Rising Costs

PDD reported Q1 2025 revenue of 95.7 billion RMB, up 10 percent year-on-year. Adjusted net profit fell 45 percent to 16.9 billion RMB, significantly below market expectations. Operating expenses rose 37 percent, driven mainly by a 43 percent surge in sales and marketing costs. The company attributed the increase to promotional activities and platform support programs aimed at improving the merchant ecosystem. Commission and ad revenue growth continues to decelerate, while new regulatory guidelines may further impact platform fee structures.

Pop Mart Opens First Global Collection Store in Chengdu SKP

Pop Mart has launched its first-ever Pop Mart Collection store at Chengdu SKP, marking a new phase in its brand-led collectible toy strategy. Spanning over 200 square meters, the store features a space-themed design and exclusive releases like Mega Space Molly 400 percent. The choice of SKP reflects a move toward premium retail positioning, aiming to create a high-end cultural retail experience and strengthen engagement with collectors.

US Tariff Threat Sparks Surge in Swiss Watch Exports

Swiss watch exports rose 18.2 percent in April, driven largely by a 149 percent jump in shipments to the US as companies rushed to beat potential new tariffs. The US accounted for one-third of total exports, while other markets, including China and Hong Kong, saw sharp declines. Steel and precious metal watches led the growth, with high-end timepieces showing the strongest performance. Industry analysts attribute the surge to short-term factors rather than long-term demand shifts.

Palm Angels and Revlon Sign Fragrance Licensing Deal

Palm Angels has signed a licensing agreement with beauty giant Revlon to develop a new line of men’s and women’s fragrances and scented products, with the first collection expected to launch in 2027. The partnership marks Palm Angels’ expansion into the fragrance market, extending its blend of American skate culture and Italian craftsmanship. For Revlon, the deal adds to its portfolio of licensed fragrance brands.

Kwai Reports Q1 2025 Results, AI and Overseas Units Show Momentum

Kwai posted Q1 2025 revenue of 32.6 billion RMB, up 10.9 percent year-on-year, with adjusted net profit reaching 4.6 billion RMB. The company’s overseas business turned a quarterly operating profit for the first time. AI-powered video tool Kling generated 150 million RMB in revenue, with growing adoption among prosumers and enterprise clients. Daily active users hit a record 408 million, up 3.6 percent year-on-year.