LONDON, Oct 22 (Reuters) - Consumer goods group Reckitt

expects China to continue to be a growth engine for its

core business, CEO Kris Licht said on Wednesday, as

health-conscious consumers increasingly engage with brands

across the company's portfolio.

Reckitt beat expectations for third-quarter like-for-like

net sales growth, boosted by strength in emerging markets, which

saw like-for-like net revenue growth of 15.5%, marking a bright

spot for a sector weighed down by broader pressures.

China specifically delivered another strong quarter of

double-digit growth, Reckitt said, with brands including Dettol,

Durex and Veet contributing to market share gains there.

China's population is ageing and now fairly affluent, Licht

said, creating a real willingness to spend. E-commerce now makes

up the majority of Reckitt's China business, Licht added, while

livestreaming, one of the ways Reckitt engages with consumers,

is growing fast.

"We're just seeing a very receptive consumer that is willing

to try new things, willing to pay a premium for improved

performance and effectiveness, and I think that's a good place

to be," Licht said.

Licht named Malaysia, Colombia and Indonesia as markets that

could help create a "third engine" of growth in emerging

markets, building on strong performance in China and India.