Contraction in exports to the United States slows the growth of the Italian eyewear industry in 2025
A phase of rebalancing and export diversification is beginning, offering new opportunities to be seized.
The 2025 pre-estimate prepared by ANFAO outlines an Italian eyewear industry that confirms its structural and manufacturing strength, despite a slowdown in growth mainly linked to the contraction of exports to the United States. This trend, attributable to contingent factors—particularly trade tensions and tariffs—marks the beginning of a rebalancing phase in export scenarios, with European markets showing strong resilience.
“2025 highlighted a complex international context, marked by trade tensions and a phase of rebalancing global exchanges, but also the structural strength of the Italian eyewear industry,” comments Lorraine Berton, President of ANFAO.
In 2025, the global economic environment was characterized by persistent political and trade tensions and rising trade barriers, impacting international flows. Despite this, some emerging economies maintained relatively sustained growth rates, with aggregate growth prospects estimated at around +4.1%. The United States showed signs of slowdown in the second half of the year, while Europe demonstrated greater macroeconomic stability.
In Italy, GDP growth in 2025 is estimated at around 0.7–0.8%. Within this framework, the manufacturing system confirmed its overall resilience, despite the absence of strong growth acceleration.
Based on the latest available data (October 2025), the 2025 pre-estimate indicates Italian eyewear production of €5.64 billion, stable compared to 2024. The number of manufacturers stands at 798 companies (-2% year-on-year). Employment, including flexible contracts, amounts to 22,837 workers (-4.4%), mainly due to the non-renewal of fixed-term contracts.
In 2025, total exports of the sector declined by -3.9% in value, reaching just over €5 billion. Sunglasses recorded a -5.5% decrease to approximately €3.3 billion, while frames declined by -0.9% to €1.6 billion. Imports also fell by 2 percentage points to €1.77 billion. The downturn was strongly influenced by the contraction of the U.S. market, largely affected by the introduction of tariffs.
Europe confirmed its role as the main export destination, absorbing over 59% of total exports and recording growth of +8.1% compared to 2024. Conversely, the American continent experienced an overall decline of -25.5%, driven by the sharp contraction in North America (-33.3%). In Asia, the export share reached 16.6%, with a year-on-year variation of -3.8%.
In 2025, Italian eyewear exports amounted to 106 million pairs (-3%), including 63 million pairs of sunglasses and 43 million pairs of prescription frames. On the domestic market, according to NIQ GfK, sell-out in the specialized channel reached approximately €3.1 billion, with +2.0% growth in the January–October period.
Looking ahead to 2026, prospects point to cautious optimism. Global growth is expected at around 3.3%, while Italy’s GDP is forecast at approximately 1%. Demographic trends and evolving visual needs continue to support the sector’s structural demand.
“The outlook for 2026 points to a scenario of cautious optimism, supported by demographic factors, evolving visual needs and new opportunities in international markets,” emphasizes Lorraine Berton.
“Companies’ ability to focus on value, differentiation and positioning will be key to supporting the rebalancing of exports, with a gradual improvement also expected in the United States.”
This climate is further confirmed by expectations for MIDO 2026, which is set to welcome approximately 1,200 exhibitors, including over 140 new companies.
“MIDO once again confirms itself as the international reference platform for the sector, not only for business, but also for interpreting trends and ongoing transformations,” concludes Berton.