Before sunrise in Danyang, lens factories spring to life. On the Chinese mainland’s eyeglasses capital, over 400 million pairs of lenses roll off production lines each year, supplying a major share of the global market. But recent shifts in US tariff policies have cast a shadow over the city’s manufacturers.
Tariff Headwinds in Danyang
With new duties on imported optical components, local businesses report material costs rising by 10-15%. “Every lens blank and coating chemical feels the pinch,” says Chen Li, operations director at Danyang Lens Co. “We need to rethink our sourcing and sales strategies.”
Innovative Responses
To stay competitive, Danyang’s lens makers are adopting multiple tactics:
- Diversifying supply chains across the EU, ASEAN, and India.
- Investing in automation and AI-driven quality control.
- Launching direct-to-consumer e-commerce channels.
- Testing sustainable materials like bio-based polymers.
Looking Ahead
Market analyst Julia Wang believes these moves could redefine Danyang’s role: “If they balance agility with innovation, the city could emerge stronger, tariff challenges included.” As global demand evolves, Danyang’s eyewear hub is racing to keep the world in focus.
Reference(s):
BizFocus Ep.128: Global eyewear hub seeks clarity amid tariffs
cgtn.com
