Colombia Eyewear Market Size and Share Outlook - Forecast Trends and Growth Analysis Report (2025-2034)

Colombia Eyewear Market Overview

Colombia is promoting circular economy initiative to address environmental issues. As a result, production of eyewear with eco-friendly materials such as bio-acetate, wood, and plant-based plastic materials are gaining popularity among consumers. It helps eyewear market players gain a competitive edge.

Moreover, by 2050, the expected increase in aged population (above 60 years) to 14.1 million compared to about 5.2 million in 2024 is projected to push up the number of individuals with vision concerns that is likely to drive the demand for prescription eyewear forward, thereby accelerating the Colombia eyewear market development.

Colombia is witnessing a trend of remote eye testing. Digital platforms connect optical professionals and enable end-to-end remote patient engagement. It streamlines patient data and remote optometric exams while facilitating expert consultation and post-exam patient care. The growth in smartphone penetration enables such services. In 2024, a total of 77.02 million cellular mobile connections were active in Colombia which is equivalent to 147.5% of the total population.

By 2030, the prevalence of diabetes among Colombians is expected to reach 8.9% compared to 8.3% in 2021. The prevalence of diabetes can result in visual complications in individuals. The common diabetic eye diseases include diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular edema, cataracts and glaucoma. In 2024, figures from the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE) show that the estimated number of people with blindness in Colombia is 236,076 and at least 1,205,494 have moderate to severe visual impairment.

Figure:  People with Diabetes (20-79 Years), in 1,000s: (2011-2045)

Colombia Eyewear Market Trends

The demand for eyewear is driven by rising vision concerns

The majority of Colombians are suffering from vision diseases such as hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism, and amblyopia. According to 2022 data, on average, seven million health care visits related to eye diseases are performed annually in Colombia. By 2034, Colombia is expected to become an aged economy which is expected to drive the Colombia eyewear market growth. The growth in smartphone penetration has increased the screen time that can cause vision concerns such as asthenopia and computer vision syndrome, or digital eye strain. This can potentially increase the demand for eyewear with blue light blocking technology. In 2022, Colombians spent around 10 hours a day using the internet, of which 3 hours and 46 minutes were dedicated to using social networks.

The growing popularity of outdoor sports drives the demand for eyewear

Sports goggles feature strong, impact-resistant materials like polycarbonate that provide protection and enhance performance. Extreme sports have gained popularity among Colombians, including rafting and kayaking, diving, paragliding, and others. This can create potential opportunities for polarised sunglasses. Outdoor sports such as swimming and cycling require protective eyewear to protect eyes from weather-related and environmental hazards. In 2022, 24.9% of Colombia’s population engaged in physical activities, and 11.5% engaged in some kind of sport. Similarly, 6% of the children under the age of 5 took part in physical activities, bolstering the eyewear demand.

Industry News

March 2024

In 2024, Colombian leather goods brand Mario Hernandez partnered with luxury eyewear retailer Folks to launch an exclusive limited-edition sunglasses collection. This collaboration blends Mario Hernandez’s renowned craftsmanship with Folks’ expertise in high-end optical design, promising a unique fusion of fashion and functionality. The partnership highlights Colombia’s growing influence in the luxury market, showcasing the innovative synergy between two iconic local brands.

July 2022

Eyecare specialist Lentesplus announced the acquisition of Brazilian eyewear brand Livo. As part of the acquisition, Lentesplus will convert to Livo in Colombia, Mexico, Chile and Argentina. Through this brand, the company is looking to accelerate its glasses and omnichannel strategy and to open 600 stores in the next four years.

Opportunities in Colombia Eyewear Market

In the June 2024 session, the Committee on Customs, Tariff and Foreign Trade Affairs recommended deferring the tariff on imports of unassembled lenses to 0%. The Higher Council for Fiscal Policy (CONFIS) approved the measure to be implemented between 2024 and 2026.

In 2021, 3,443.6 thousand Colombians between the age of 20-79 years lived with diabetes. This number is expected to grow to 4,060.3 thousand by 2030 and 5,014.2 thousand by 2045. With the growing incidence of diabetes, the risk of diabetic retinopathy is also on the rise, as elevated blood sugar levels can cause permanent damage to the blood vessels in the retina. This, in turn, aids the demand for eyewear to alleviate symptoms associated with the condition, including blurred vision, double vision, and eye floaters.

Colombia Eyewear Market Restraints

The availability of counterfeit and defective can damage brand reputation and result in eye-related issues in Colombia. These products are significantly inexpensive than designer labels, which appeals to fashion-conscious consumers. This can potentially reduce consumer spending on designer labels due to lack of trust issues.

In 2022, more than 40% of the 51 million inhabitants were considered poor, and poverty is above average in rural areas. As a result, due to lack of awareness and low resources, communities share common challenges in accessing eye health services that could impact the market.

Colombia imports eyewear from major exporters such as China and the U.S. Economic downturns, fluctuating exchange rates, and geopolitical risk can lead to disruptions in the procurement of eyewear products, which can impact the Colombia eyewear market.

Colombia Eyewear Market Dynamics

Increasing prevalence of vision-related concerns among children is driving the demand for eyewear

Strabismus, or 'cross-eyed' condition is increasing among children in Colombia. This ocular misalignment causes a decrease in vision known as amblyopia or lazy eye. According to 2023 data, this eye defect affects 2 to 5 out of every 100 children under 15 years of age, thus, contributing to the growing demand for prescription eyewear. Further, rising screentime among Colombians drives the need for eyewear due to an increase in digital eye strain and related vision issues. In 2022, Colombians spent on an average 10.07 hours on screen per day.

Eyewear made of sustainable materials is gaining consumer attention

Eyewear manufacturers are using eco-friendly materials, such as bio-acetate, wood, and plant-based plastics, to attract consumer attention and improve their sustainability. Additionally, innovations in eyewear, such as glasses with blue light protection technology and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, are gaining popularity in the Colombia eyewear market.

Colombia Eyewear Industry Segmentation

“Colombia Eyewear Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Product

• Spectacles
• Sunglasses
• Contact Lens

Market Breakup by Gender

• Men
• Women
• Unisex

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

• Independent Brand Showrooms
• Optical Stores
• Online Stores
• Retail Stores

Colombia Eyewear Market Share

By Product Insights

As per Colombia eyewear market analysis, currently, over 60% of the Colombian population has vision issues, with hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism and amblyopia being the common diseases. In order to alleviate the growing vision concerns, the Ministry of Health and Social Protection launched measures to help citizens obtain corrective glasses through its Health Promotion Entities (EPS) in 2024. The rising number of diabetes cases in Colombia is increasing the adoption of spectacles. In 2023, Colombia had 1,748,586 individuals living with diabetes.

There is a growing demand for sunglasses across Colombia driven by the increasing awareness of the importance of eye protection in addition to as a fashion trend. As per 2024 data, about 40% of Colombians own at least one pair of sunglasses. Additionally, 87% of customers wear sunglasses for casual events, and formal occasions to be fashionable.

The rising developments in lenses are supporting Colombia eyewear market expansion. In October 2023, Essilor launched progressive lenses Varilux® XR series in Colombia. The lens designed using AI offers instant clarity even in motion. Some of the major brands of ophthalmic lenses in Colombia are Essilor Group, BLUE RAY, LENS TOUR, SOLA, VIXON, and VISIONCIS among others.

As per 2022 data, over seven million cases of eye disease are treated annually in Colombia. The convenience and flexibility offered by contact lenses are increasing their adoption for treating eye diseases.

By Gender Insights

Sunglass as an accessory is being increasingly adopted by women in Colombia. This is further leading to an increased import of sunglasses.

During January to July 2022, Colombia imports of sunglasses reached USD 7,701,243, with the major importing companies being Opticas Gmo Colombia SAS, Play Hawkers Colombia SAS, Nalsani SAS, STF Group SA, and Lafam SAS.

In Colombia, it is estimated that about 40% of vision problems are associated with refractive errors, which can be effectively addressed by using corrective eyewear in both children and adults.

The presence of a significant number of diabetes cases in Colombia is necessitating the adoption of eyewear, as it can cause decreased visual field, difficulty focusing, or changes in vision from blurry to clear, among others. Between July 1, 2021, and June 30, 2022, 1,599,368 cases were reported with diabetes diagnosis with insurance in Colombia, of which 20.66% of the diagnosis being men.

Colombia Eyewear Market Distribution Channel Insights

As per Colombia eyewear market report, the convenience and wide variety offered through e-commerce channels are increasing its adoption in Colombia. As per August 2023 data, online fashion consumption represents 53% of sales throughout the country.

Some of the prominent e-commerce channels offering eyewear in Colombia are exito.com, homecenter.com.co, and Opticas Gmo Colombia.

In May 2024, Sunglass Hut, an international eyewear chain launched two new stores in Colombia, located in Cali and Barranquilla. The stores offer eyewear from brand such as Dolce & Gabbana, Versace, Miu Miu, Gucci, and Prada among others.

Major optical stores in Colombia are GMO, Lafam Optics, and Ópticas Colombiana. Ópticas Colombiana has 21 opticians distributed in 8 cities. Additionally, GMO has a total of 78 optical stores in Colombia, distributed across 15 municipalities.

Competitive Landscape of Colombia Eyewear Market

Market players are focused on sustainability, product diversification, and technological innovation. Companies are achieving sustainability through recycled materials and waste reduction. In addition, market players are expanding their footprint across the country, further supporting the Colombia eyewear market growth.

Key Industry Players

EssilorLuxottica SA is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of ophthalmic lenses, frames, and sunglasses. Established in 2018 through the merger of Essilor and Luxottica, the company draws on two centuries of innovation and expertise.

HOYA Lens Colombia a leading ophthalmological laboratory in Colombia with over 50 years of expertise, provides customized visual solutions through collaboration with optometrists, ophthalmologists, and sales consultants. Founded in 1950 the company has a workforce of 270 employees.

Safilo Group S.p.A is a prominent leader in the eyewear industry, specializing in the design, manufacture, and distribution of optical frames, sunglasses, sports eyewear, goggles, and helmets. Headquartered in Italy, Safilo oversees its entire production and distribution process globally, with design studios in Padua, Milan, New York, Hong Kong, and Portland, along with dedicated facilities and skilled manufacturing partners.

Kering S.A. is a a renowned global luxury group, oversees a collection of esteemed Fashion, Leather Goods, and Jewelry Houses such as Gucci, Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, and others. Founded in 1963, Kering SA, employs a dynamic workforce of 49,000 individuals dedicated to delivering exceptional luxury experiences. With a network of 1,771 directly operated stores and subsidiaries spanning 60 countries, Kering's global reach allows it to captivate customers worldwide.

Other Colombia eyewear market players include Carl Zeiss AG, CooperVision, Inc, Ben & Frank, Fento, Saju, Colgafas SAS, and Bilib, among others.

Recent Developments

August 2023

Aruba collaborated with Colombian brand Sajú to launch a sunglasses collection inspired by the island's vibrant culture, known as 'the island of happiness'. This partnership aimed to capture the warmth and hospitality of the locals in the designs, while emphasizing Sajú's commitment to sustainability through recycled materials and waste reduction. The collection showcased the joy and spirit characteristic of Aruba, blending cultural appreciation with eco-friendly fashion.

July 2023

Sajú opened an experience store in Cartagena, bringing its total points of sale to four. At this new location, the brand offered customers the ability to have personalized glasses made within 20 minutes, a service also available at their first store in Bogotá. With this new addition, Sajú expanded its presence to four stores nationwide, including two in Bogotá and one in Medellín.