Italian eyewear: geographical excellence withstands global challenges

Italian eyewear is not just an industrial segment; it is a deeply rooted heritage of know-how and an unparalleled symbol of Made in Italy. In 2024, this supply chain counted around 814 companies nationwide and 19,000 employees, combining outstanding manufacturing, materials research and iconic design. Over the past year, it has faced a complex geopolitical scenario, emerging from the first half of 2025 not only unscathed, but strengthened, as a sector that truly masters the global market.

A challenging landscape and new trade routes  

Despite global instability, Italian eyewear – which exports around 90% of its production – closed the first half of 2025 with exports worth 2.8 billion euro. Although this result reflects a slight overall decline of -3.7% compared to an exceptionally strong 2024, it confirms the sector’s structural solidity.

Its capacity to innovate is reflected in the performance of optical segments: frames (prescription glasses) kept pace with growth of +0.1%, while lenses recorded an increase of +1.2%. Only sunglasses – the segment most exposed to market fluctuations – saw a downturn of -5.5%.

Faced with global uncertainty, Italy has been able to activate its best strategic defences: diversification and excellence.

Europe has confirmed its role as the undisputed pillar, growing by a robust +8% overall and absorbing almost 60% of total exports. Within this framework, the dynamism of Eastern European markets – with Poland (+21.3%) and Hungary (+24.5%) showing strong momentum – has been particularly significant.

A crucial signal of confidence has come from the East, with China returning to centre stage, posting +29.5% and confirming the relentless Asian demand for premium and high-design Made in Italy products.

Across the Atlantic, the sector has inevitably felt the impact of a slowdown in the US market, largely attributable to the new tariffs introduced in the country. However, this challenge has accelerated the search for new routes: Mexico, for instance, has recorded exceptional growth of +47%, emerging as a potential alternative strategic hub.

From Belluno to global luxury  

The true story of Italian success is set among the valleys of the Dolomites. The eyewear industry has a unique heart: the Belluno and Cadore district, which accounts for around 70% of national production.  

This is no coincidence, but the legacy of a history that began in Calalzo di Cadore back in 1878 with the founding of the first Italian factory by Angelo Frescura.

Today, the district stands out for two key factors:

Integrated supply chain: major global groups coexist here with a dense network of specialised SMEs providing machinery, components and treatments, ensuring total control over industrial know-how;

Leadership in luxury: this concentration of excellence has enabled Italy to become the leading producer in Europe of frames and sunglasses, and above all the world’s number one producer and exporter in the high-end (luxury) segment.

Success is fuelled by the trend towards premiumisation, which has definitively transformed eyewear from a simple optical device into an essential fashion and luxury accessory.

Italian eyewear, strengthened by its history and its unmatched supply chain, is ready to navigate the future with the authority of a sector that holds a global benchmark in excellence.

Italy is ready to welcome foreign partners and companies interested in collaborating with one of the most dynamic and influential pillars of Made in Italy. Seize business opportunities in the Italian eyewear sector with OpportunItaly, join the programme.

Fonti: 

ANFAO, Preconsuntivo settore 2024, preview 2025  
Mido 
ICE 
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