Weight Loss Products Driving Nutraceutical Sales in Southeast Asia

Weight Loss Products Driving Nutraceutical Sales in Southeast Asia

LONDONDespite the perception of nutraceutical products as luxuryitems, the market is growing for such products in Southeast Asia due to theapparent health benefits, according to a new report from the market researchfirm Frost & Sullivan (www.food.frost.com). In Strategic Analysis of the Nutraceuticals Market in Southeast Asia, Frost analysts estimate revenue inthis industry topped $2.3 billion in 2005; growth may be hindered by costs thatput the products out of reach of many lower income groups in Indonesia, Vietnamand the Philippines.

However, ingredients such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and green teaextract targeting the weight loss market saw significant growth rates in 2005.The focus of nutraceutical manufacturers in Southeast Asia is on weightmanagement and products targeted at enhancing physical appearance such ashealthy skin and hair, said Li Pheng Ooi, research analyst. The emphasisplaced on looking slim is driving the growth of the nutraceutical market forweight-loss products in Thailand, Vietnam and Singapore.