India Eyewear Market Outlook to 2030

India Eyewear Market Overview

• The India eyewear market is valued at USD 4.8 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is largely driven by the increasing incidence of vision impairments among the population and the rise in disposable income, which has made premium eyewear products more accessible. Additionally, rapid urbanization, lifestyle changes, and awareness about eye health have contributed to the demand for both prescription glasses and fashion eyewear.
• Dominant regions in the market include major metropolitan areas such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore. These cities dominate the market due to their large population base, higher purchasing power, and an increasing inclination toward branded eyewear. The rapid adoption of e-commerce in these cities has also contributed to the growth of the market by making eyewear products easily available to consumers across diverse demographics.
• The National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCB) was launched to reduce the prevalence of blindness by providing affordable eye care services across the country. In 2023, the government allocated $60 million towards free eye check-up camps, distribution of free spectacles, and awareness campaigns, primarily targeting rural and underserved communities.

India Eyewear Market Segmentation

• By Product Type: The market is segmented by product type into prescription glasses, sunglasses, contact lenses, and smart glasses. Prescription glasses have held a dominant market share in this segment. This dominance is attributed to the increasing number of people suffering from vision issues due to prolonged exposure to screens, rising awareness regarding eye care, and the affordability of prescription glasses.

• By Distribution Channel: The market is segmented by distribution channel into optical stores, online retail, hospital and clinic chains, and department stores. The optical stores segment continues to dominate the market, with consumers preferring in-store purchases to ensure proper fitting and expert advice. Major players like Titan Eye Plus and GKB Opticals have a presence in this segment, offering a variety of brands under one roof, often including both premium and affordable eyewear products.

India Eyewear Market Competitive Landscape

The market is dominated by both local and international players who compete based on product range, pricing, distribution networks, and innovation. The increasing demand for branded products, coupled with the rise in e-commerce, has intensified competition.

India Eyewear Market Analysis

Market Growth Drivers

• Increased Focus on Eye Health in India: The National Program for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI) has been instrumental in providing free or subsidized eye care across India. In 2021-2022, the program conducted 5.8 million cataract surgeries, addressing preventable blindness and increasing demand for corrective eyewear among low-income populations. The governments efforts to provide affordable eye care services under initiatives like the National Program for Control of Blindness (NPCBVI) are helping increase awareness and access to corrective eyewear.
• Growth in Organized Retail: Organized retail is rapidly expanding in India, offering a broader range of eyewear products through modern retail channels. With the opening of around 2000 new retail stores by leading eyewear brands in 2024, urban and semi-urban areas are seeing better access to premium eyewear products. The rise of shopping malls and e-commerce platforms has also allowed consumers to explore a wide variety of domestic and international brands, contributing to market growth.
• Rise in Digital Device Usage: The increasing use of digital devices, such as smartphones and computers, is contributing to a surge in eye strain and related disorders. In 2024, India will have over 840 million internet users, many of whom spend long hours in front of digital screens. This has led to a rise in the demand for blue light-blocking eyewear. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has reported that over 400 million people in India use smartphones extensively, further increasing the need for eyewear products that reduce the effects of digital eye strain.

Market Challenges

• Limited Penetration in Rural Areas: Despite growth in urban regions, eyewear penetration in rural areas remains low. Rural India, home to nearly 890 million people, has limited access to quality eye care services and optical products. A large proportion of the rural population is unaware of the importance of regular eye check-ups, resulting in underdiagnosed vision issues.
• Counterfeit Eyewear Products: The Indian eyewear market faces a challenge from counterfeit and substandard products, which are prevalent due to weak enforcement of intellectual property laws. According to a report from the Ministry of Commerce, counterfeit eyewear products are flooding the market, leading to revenue losses for legitimate companies. These low-cost imitations often fail to meet quality standards, causing potential health risks to consumers.

India Eyewear Market Future Outlook

The India eyewear industry is poised for growth over the next five years, driven by increased awareness about eye health, growth in disposable incomes, and the expansion of e-commerce. Innovations in smart eyewear, coupled with the rising adoption of sustainable and eco-friendly materials, are also expected to drive market demand.

Future Market Opportunities

• Expansion of Mobile Eye Care Services: In the coming years, mobile eye care units will play a crucial role in expanding access to optical care in rural and underserved areas. These mobile units will offer diagnostic services and eyewear distribution to populations that have limited access to traditional healthcare facilities. By 2025, the government plans to deploy an additional 500 mobile health units across rural India, improving the availability of optical care services and boosting eyewear demand.
• Growth in Demand for Anti-Pollution Eyewear: As India continues to face air pollution challenges, the demand for anti-pollution eyewear is expected to grow. Eyewear manufacturers are increasingly developing glasses designed to protect against airborne pollutants, particularly in highly polluted urban areas like Delhi. With pollution levels showing no signs of improvement, this product category is expected to see robust growth over the next five years as consumers seek ways to protect their eyes from environmental harm.