Where Should You Manufacture Makeup Brushes in 2025? A Closer Look at China, Korea, and Thailand

Global Brush Sourcing Is Shifting—Here’s Why

For years, sourcing makeup brushes from China was a no-brainer: low cost, fast development, and mature supply chains. But in 2025, the conversation is changing.

With tariffs tightening, shipping delays still common, and a growing demand for eco-conscious beauty tools, brands are starting to rethink where their brushes are made. Whether you're a clean beauty startup or a global retailer, choosing the right brush manufacturing hub can directly impact cost, lead time, and market perception.

So—where are brands going now? Let’s break down the major options.

China: Still Powerful, But Facing Pressure

China remains the go-to region for many brush types thanks to deep supply chains and flexible production. However:

  • Rising U.S. tariffs are increasing landed costs

  • Shipping costs and delays are still a concern

  • Market saturation is making differentiation harder

That said, China is still great for high-volume, stock-based solutions or brands already integrated into Chinese ecosystems.

Korea: Innovation and Prestige Appeal

Korea’s reputation for skincare often overshadows its capabilities in tools, but the country has several premium brush manufacturers known for:

  • Excellent craftsmanship

  • Hybrid brush/sponge/fiber technology

  • Clean beauty alignment

The downside? Longer timelines, higher MOQs, and a premium price point.

Thailand: The Underrated Brush Hub You Should Be Watching

Thailand is quickly becoming a quiet favorite for beauty brands looking to diversify and future-proof their sourcing strategy. Here’s why:

  • Proximity to ports and international airports makes logistics easy

  • Labor and operating costs are competitive with China, but with more political neutrality

  • Thailand is increasingly known for its eco-conscious manufacturing and skilled labor in beauty tools

A Real Example: Our New Brush Factory in Thailand

In late 2023, we began building out a new brush production facility in Samut Prakan, Thailand, just outside Bangkok. The facility is focused entirely on custom makeup brushes, using:

  • Ultra-soft bristles for pro-level performance

  • Eco-materials like recycled tea, wood, and coffee dust

  • Modern designs with automated shaping and efficient assembly lines

  • A production floor replicated from our top-tier China facility for consistency

It's designed for global export (with fast access to Europe, U.S., and APAC), and offers a smart solution for brands who want custom, sustainable tools—without the risks that sometimes come with single-region sourcing.

If you're planning a new brush collection in 2025, don’t just default to where you’ve always manufactured. The beauty landscape is evolving—and so should your supply chain.

Consider a multi-region strategy, or explore emerging hubs like Thailand that combine cost-efficiency, innovation, and stability.

XJ BEAUTY