The Italian eyewear industry 2025 2026 is entering a pivotal phase. Preliminary data released by ANFAO for 2025 outline a sector that remains structurally and industrially solid, yet facing a slowdown in growth largely driven by a contraction in exports to the United States. Against a backdrop of trade tensions and protectionist measures, the industry is moving into a phase of rebalancing, opening up new opportunities for export diversification.
A Structurally Solid Industry in a Complex Environment
In 2025, Italian eyewear confirmed the strength of its manufacturing base. Production value remained stable at €5.64 billion, highlighting the sector’s ability to preserve its fundamentals despite an uncertain global economic environment. The industrial structure also remained broadly unchanged, with around 800 active companies nationwide, reinforcing eyewear’s central role within Italy’s manufacturing system.
The Slowdown in Exports to the United States
Exports, which account for around 90% of total production, declined in 2025, mainly due to the performance of the US market. Preliminary figures show a sharp drop in exports to the United States, largely attributable to the introduction of tariffs and the uncertainty generated by ongoing trade tensions. This dynamic had a particularly strong impact on sunglasses, a segment more sensitive to changes in consumer confidence and discretionary spending.
Europe as a Pillar of Stability
In contrast, European markets played a decisive stabilising role. In 2025, Europe accounted for close to 60% of Italian eyewear exports and recorded positive growth overall. Key markets such as France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom delivered solid performances, confirming Europe’s strategic importance in the current phase of export rebalancing.
Geographical Diversification and New Trade Balances
Beyond Europe, geographical diversification is emerging as a key strategic lever. In Asia, Italian eyewear exports returned to pre-pandemic levels, while several emerging markets posted significant growth. This redistribution of export flows reflects the industry’s capacity to adapt to changing global conditions and to identify new growth drivers in a fragmented international trade landscape.
The Domestic Market and Structural Vision Demand
Italy’s domestic market continues to act as a stabilising factor. In 2025, domestic eyewear sales increased in value, supported by structural demand linked to vision care. Ophthalmic lenses remain a core segment, driven by demographic ageing and the rising prevalence of vision defects such as presbyopia and myopia.
2026 Outlook: Cautious Confidence
The outlook for 2026 is characterised by cautious but constructive optimism. Macroeconomic forecasts point to moderate yet resilient global growth, while Italy is expected to benefit from a more favourable financial environment. For the Italian eyewear industry, the fundamentals remain strong: manufacturing quality, innovation, know-how and international positioning continue to represent key assets supporting a gradual recovery in trade dynamics.
Within this context, the Italian eyewear industry 2025 2026 approaches the future with measured confidence. Export rebalancing, the strengthening role of Europe and selected emerging markets, together with structural demand driven by vision needs, outline a controlled transition scenario. Rather than a simple downturn, 2025 appears as a year of strategic repositioning, laying the groundwork for a progressive rebound in 2026.
