eyeglasses frames

Eyeglasses and eyeglasses frames exports from China are increasing at a steady pace, even though the industry is consolidating, and suppliers are dealing with numerous challenges including rising raw material costs and intense competition. The country's overseas sales of eyeglasses and eyeglasses frames have been increasing over the past three years. At US$960 million, exports in 2005 were 25 percent higher than in 2004. Shipments made in the first six months of 2006 increased by almost 35 percent to US$612 million compared with the US$454 million worth of eyewear exported in the previous corresponding period. In the first six months of 2006, eyeglasses and eyeglasses exports from the country grew 15 percent to 827 million pairs and 35 percent to US$612 million, compared with shipments made in the previous corresponding period. If current growth rates are sustained, export sales could exceed US$1.2 billion by the end of 2006. The US is the largest importer of China-made eyeglasses and eyeglasses, purchasing 458 million pairs worth almost US$317 million in 2005. This constitutes about one-third of China's total exports in the line. The EU, led by Italy, is the second largest importer with shipments totaling 267 million pairs at a value of US$259 million. More than one-third of these went to Italy.