Signs of recovery for Italian eyewear in the Usa

According to figures published by Ice based on US Department of Commerce records of American imports in the 'I-Style' sector (home/furnishings and fashion), in the first quarter of 2004 Italy's exports to the United States began to grow again (+2.67% compared to the same period 2003).

The recovery in consumption on the American domestic market and a less penalizing exchange rate (after last January's peak of 1.26 $ to the €), are at last showing positive signs for Italian exports, which have been feeling the pinch for some time now.

At almost 3%, the most obvious sign of change came from the Fashion sector. Some Made in Italy segments in particular showed a two-figure growth in America's imports from Italy.

Eyewear imports grew by over 11 percentage points and Italy has returned to having a 30% share of the Us market. Reassuring signs from what has always been the primary reference market for Italian eyewear and where last year's lost ground must be regained.

Next quarter's results will be important as an indication of whether this positive trend is ongoing.