Kenvue broadens China focus on minor ailment management

With rising health awareness and growing pressure on medical resources driving demand for reliable self-care products and services, Kenvue Inc, the United States-based consumer health company, will expand its focus on minor ailment management in China as the country steps up efforts to improve public health literacy and advance universal health coverage.

Speaking ahead of International Self-Care Day on Friday, Gift Arpaporn Samabhandhu, president of Kenvue China, said China offers enormous market potential as consumers place greater emphasis on self-care and preventive health.

The New Jersey-headquartered group, whose brands include Rhinocort, Motilium, Daktarin, Motrin, and Listerine, operates across categories such as allergy relief, digestive health, pediatric care, oral health, and fungal infection treatments.

"Minor ailments are common and closely linked to people's daily lives, but many consumers still lack the confidence or knowledge to manage them properly," Samabhandhu said.

A recent Kenvue-supported survey covering more than 100 Chinese cities found that over 90 percent of the 2,000-plus respondents were willing to manage minor health problems at home, while fewer than 20 percent felt confident doing so.

“The findings highlighted unmet demand not only for medicines, but also for clearer guidance, trusted brands, and more accessible health services,” she added.

To address that need, Kenvue is expanding its product portfolio while strengthening public health education and partnerships with pharmacies and online platforms.

The strategy is already reflected in a series of product launches. Recent additions include a fast-dissolving Xisimin allergy treatment, Aveeno skincare products for newborns, and an expanded range of Daktarin antifungal products. Motrin has also extended its pediatric portfolio beyond over-the-counter medicines to include fever patches and saline nasal sprays.

Beyond product innovation, Kenvue is investing in health education through partnerships with medical associations, foundations, and digital platforms. Earlier this year, it supported a medical education initiative that combined clinical guidelines with JD’s medical artificial intelligence technology to provide physicians with diagnostic and treatment recommendations.

Retail pharmacies are another key focus. Working with chains including Yixintang, Guoda Pharmacy, and Jianzhijia, Kenvue is establishing dedicated minor ailment zones that provide comprehensive health services including health assessments, medication guidance, and follow-up services.

Samabhandhu said such partnerships could help pharmacies move beyond product sales and take on a broader role as the health stations for community health management.

China's shift from a treatment-centered approach to a health-centered approach provides a supportive backdrop. Under the Healthy China 2030 initiative, policymakers have encouraged individuals to take greater responsibility for their own health.

"When supported by science, appropriate products, and reliable guidance, self-care can help people address everyday health needs earlier and more effectively," Samabhandhu said, adding that Kenvue will continue to boost minor ailment management in China to bring everyday care to more consumers.