The latest round of tariffs has hit the optical industry hard, increasing costs on eyeglass frames, lenses, and contact lenses. With import duties ranging from 27.5% to 33.5% on Chinese optical goods—and additional tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada—many opticians and optometrists with optical departments are feeling the pressure.
If you own an optical department, here’s what you need to know and how you can best manage these changes to protect your business.
How the Trade War Affects Your Optical Department
Higher Costs on Frames and Lenses
China is the largest supplier of eyeglass frames and a major source of lenses. With tariffs increasing total duties to nearly 30%, wholesale costs are rising. That means:
- Designer and budget-friendly frames alike are getting more expensive.
- Non-plastic frames and mounting costs are up by 27.5%.
- Contact lenses, OTC reading glasses, and complete eyeglasses face nearly 30% tariffs.
You’ll need to make key pricing and sourcing decisions to offset these rising costs.
Disruptions in Supply Chains
Shipping delays, inventory shortages, and increased lead times are becoming more common. If you rely on just one supplier, you could face backorders or price hikes that cut into your margins.
Optical Lab Equipment Is More Expensive
If you own in-house lab equipment for grinding, edging, or coating lenses, expect price hikes. Equipment like lens polishers, CNC milling systems, and CAD/CAM milling systems now face nearly 50% in total duties when imported from China.
Strategies to Protect Your Optical Business
Diversify Your Frame and Lens Suppliers
- Look for alternative suppliers in tariff-free regions. Consider manufacturers in Vietnam, Taiwan, South Korea, or Europe, where tariffs may be lower or nonexistent.
- US-based suppliers may be an option, but ensure pricing remains competitive.
Adjust Pricing Without Losing Patients
- Consider gradual price increases rather than sudden jumps.
- Offer financing or subscription-based eyewear plans to ease the burden on cost-conscious patients.
- Use bundled discounts to incentivize multi-pair purchases.
Buy in Bulk to Secure Lower Costs
- Larger orders help lock in pricing before further tariff hikes.
- Partnering with local opticians for group purchases may yield better wholesale rates.
Promote Private Label or In-House Brands
- Private label frames and lenses from non-tariffed sources allow you to offer unique styles at lower prices compared to big-name brands impacted by tariffs.
- If you own a finishing lab, producing your own lenses may reduce dependency on outside suppliers.
Optimize Inventory and Reduce Waste
- Limit excessive frame stock on hand and focus on best-sellers.
- Leverage virtual try-on technology to minimize the need for large in-office frame selections.
Invest in Alternative Equipment Sources
- If you need new lab equipment, consider buying refurbished or second-hand machines from reputable suppliers instead of importing new units from China.
- Work with leasing companies that allow flexible financing options instead of large upfront purchases.
Stay Proactive: Monitor Tariff Changes and Negotiate with Vendors
- Stay updated on trade policy changes. The Vision Council and trade groups provide the latest tariff insights.
- Negotiate with your suppliers. Some vendors are absorbing part of the cost increase or offering flexible payment terms to retain customers.
- Educate your patients. If prices increase, be transparent about why—patients are more understanding when they know it’s due to external factors.
Final Thoughts: Adapt and Thrive Despite Market Shifts
The trade war is creating new challenges, but by adapting your sourcing strategy, managing costs, and offering value-driven eyewear options, your optical department can remain profitable. Diversifying suppliers, adjusting pricing strategies, and being proactive in inventory and equipment planning will help you navigate these turbulent times.
Stay informed, flexible, and prepared—because the optical industry is always evolving.
