Introduction
With China established as the world’s foremost manufacturing hub across countless industries, it comes as no surprise that the country plays a pivotal role in producing sunglasses sold globally. In fact, China Sunglasses manufactures an estimated 70% of the world’s eyewear across both luxury brands and affordable mass-market labels.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the extensive sunglass manufacturing ecosystem that has developed across China over the past several decades. You will learn about the major factories cranking out both cheap frames by the millions and specialized production of high-end sunglasses rivaling quality levels from Europe. We will analyze how China came to dominate eyewear output through manufacturing prowess and cost advantages as well as assess current shifts of some brands looking to diversify supply chains beyond China.
Topics covered include:
By the end, you will have a comprehensive perspective on the role China plays in the global sunglasses industry as both a manufacturing juggernaut and also center of innovation pushing boundaries. Let’s delve into made-in-China eyewear!
Chapter 1 – The Emergence of China as the Sunglass Factory to the World
China’s rise to manufacturing sunglasses for nearly every major brand reflects its broader industrial explosion:
Positioned at the nexus of incentives, infrastructure, and ambition, China rapidly emerged as the sunglass source for established brands and startups alike seeking the optimum balance of quality and cost efficiency.
Chapter 2 – China’s Major Eyewear Manufacturing Regions
Sunglass production thrives in industrial epicenters like:
Proximity to component suppliers, logistics infrastructure, and experienced talent drives clustering in these zones where sophisticated manufacturing ecosystems exist.
Chapter 3 – Mass Market Sunglass Manufacturers in China
China’s vast manufacturing capacities allow for the production of incredible volumes of discount and private-label sunglasses:
Wenzhou Wanxiang Optical
With over 200,000 square feet of factories, Wenzhou Wanxiang cranks out 10,000 units daily across multiple product lines from kids’ frames to safety glasses. They thrive on high efficiency to deliver value.
Mingshi Optical
Powerhouse producer in Guangdong manufactures over 100,000 sunglasses daily across 300 production lines. They focus on flexibility to adjust capacities quickly.
Creative Optics
One of China’s largest optical manufacturers churning out 20,000 units per day. Strengths include quick turn prototyping and specialty decorative effects.
Ying Sheng Eyewear
Capable of producing 1 million units monthly, Ying Sheng exemplifies China’s manufacturing prowess through stringent quality management fueling extreme volumes.
Rising International Optics
Zhejiang factory leveraging digital manufacturing integration to enable rapid sampling, small batch flexibility, and design modifications on the fly.
This abundance of capacity to hit any economy of scale makes China the go-to for affordably priced sunglasses.
Chapter 4 – High-End Sunglass Manufacturing in China
China’s factories also produce luxury sunglasses rivaling top-tier quality:
Kuang Yue
Located in Wenzhou, Kuang Yue produces advanced acetate frames with specialty multi-layer laminations and hand polishing perfect for premium positioning.
Union Optech
Shanghai factory focused on precision metals including titanium, monel, and stainless steel finished to flawless tolerances for luxury brands.
Yantai Andre Optical
Specialized technology like PVD vacuum plating allows premium treatments from coloring to durability enhancements ideal for high-end styles.
BiDon
Leveraging digitized workflows to craft intricate women’s designs using proprietary ultra-thin metals and decorativeriveting perfect for luxury buyers.
Riyue Optical
Experts in limited edition production run using rare natural materials like buffalo horn, malachite, and obsidian achieving truly bespoke exclusivity.
China’s expertise in crafting everything from intricately laminated acetates to ultra-lightweight titanium dispels myths of the country lagging on higher-end quality.
Chapter 5 – Rigorous Quality Control and Production Engineering
Sophisticated processes match international benchmarks:
Automation – Robotics boost output consistency and precision.
Measurement – Advanced metrological tools like coordinate measuring machines ensure perfect fit and finish.
Inspection – 100% product inspections at multiple process stages not just finished output.
Testing – On-site labs rigorously validate durability, optics performance, and protection.
Traceability – Batch coding allows pinpointing manufacturing origins in the event of defects.
Process Control – Statistical process control methodology to spot anomalies quickly.
Certification – China has more ISO-certified eyewear factories than any country demonstrating stringent quality management.
China’s fixation on quality helps explain its manufacturing leadership across so many categories from electronics to automobiles and now sunglasses.
Chapter 6 – Comparing Capabilities of China’s Eyewear Factories
Not all sunglass factories in China are created equal:
Scale – The largest producers like Luxottica-owned Peerless Joyce manufacture at volumes impossible elsewhere, producing over 60 million pairs annually across 4 facilities.
Specialization – Factories in China also focus on niche production like kids’ frames or sports performance shields.
Materials – Certain factories develop expertise in specific materials such as advanced polycarbonates or precision metals.
Trend Focus – Some producers obsess over the latest fashion styles and color forecasting to help brands stay ahead.
Co-Design Partnerships – Factories like BiDon collaborate intensely with clients on product engineering and design innovation.
Electronics Integration – Factories around Shenzhen integrate microchips, batteries, and even augmented reality.
This range of differentiated capabilities provides a manufacturing solution tailored for every sunglass niche and business model.
Chapter 7 – Working With Chinese Factories on Product Development
Partnerships with producers enable deeply customized outputs:
Prototyping – Leverage deep mold libraries and CNC tooling to quickly generate multiple design iterations.
Material Guidance – Factories suggest innovative or sustainable materials aligned with product goals.
Co-Engineering – Collaboratively solve challenges around weight balancing, fit, optics, etc.
Trend Insights – Tap into insider knowledge on styles, colors, and patterns gaining traction.
Testing Assistance – Factories thoroughly validate concepts against standards.
Production Personalization – Specialized decoration options like laser engraving and enamel detailing for unique flourishes.
Manufacturers provide a symbiotic relationship helping brands bring ambitious visions to fruition through aligned problem-solving.
Chapter 8 – Managing Complex Supply Chains and Lead Times
Navigating production logistics requires planning:
Component Sourcing – Lenses, hinges, nose pads, and tooling flow from interdependent suppliers.
Procurement Times – Order key inputs like custom acetate slabs or rare metals months before assembly.
Shipping Times – Factor 1-3 weeks in ocean transit each way between supplier factories.
Buffer Stock – Keep a safety inventory of components to absorb supplier delays.
Quality Control – Full end-to-end inspections ensure no defects propagate downstream.
Expedited Delivery – Air freight cuts transit to under a week but adds substantial costs.
Forecasting – Account for production ramp-up time lagging behind demand spikes.
There are always contingencies but China’s density of suppliers minimizes lead time risks relative to other locations.
Chapter 9 – Ensuring Social Compliance and Intellectual Property Protection
Responsible sourcing from Chinese factories includes:
Social Audits – Regularly validate fair labor conditions and business ethics.
Certifications – Require social compliance certs like BSCI or SMETA.
Code of Conduct – Factories must agree to ethical business standards.
Confidentiality – Strict non-disclosure agreements must protect product designs.
Data Security – Encrypted digital communications safeguard private information.
Traceability – Serial number tracking helps combat counterfeiting.
Oversight – Schedule frequent site visits and production assessments.
China offers excellent manufacturing partners but brands must undertake due diligence to align on values.
Chapter 10 – China’s Pricing Advantages Over Other Countries
Lower manufacturing costs stem from:
Labor Costs – China’s vast workforce keeps compensation lower than most nations.
Real Estate – Factories access inexpensive industrial land and facilities, especially in second-tier cities.
Proximity – Supply chains dense with competitors drive component prices down.
Energy – Heavily coal-dependent China traditionally maintained cheap electricity costs.
Scale – Enormous order volumes provide bulk savings.
Incentives – Grants and tax breaks incentivize manufacturing expansion.
While costs are rising, China sustains advantages making the country hard to beat on overall sunglass production pricing.
Chapter 11 – The Impact of Geopolitical Trade Tensions
Increasing trade barriers add uncertainty:
Tariffs – Added import duties make Chinese goods more expensive abroad. Brands pay the costs.
Sanctions – Bans on Chinese tech acquisitions hamper access to innovations.
Sourcing Diversification – Companies feel pressured to expand supply chains in other countries creating production redundancies.
Reshoring – Some brands bring manufacturing back home through automation but sacrifice scale and labor cost benefits.
While nearly impossible to leave China completely, geopolitics prompt brands to balance risks through location diversification.
Chapter 12 – The Potential for Reshoring Sunglass Production
Made in USA appeals but relocating remains difficult:
Automation – Robotics offset higher domestic labor expenses allowing economically viable high-end manufacturing.
New Materials – Advanced polymers and alloys enable more technical differentiation.
Government Incentives – Subsidies and grants defray some costs for bringing production back home.
Focus on Design – Emphasize exclusive styles and branding rather than competing on bargains.
Local Supply Chains – Sourcing all components regionally smooths logistics.
Limited Liability – For affordable sunglasses, overseas production remains essential to control costs.
While select premium brands achieve success in bringing production back home through automation and exclusive value propositions, high production volumes still necessitate China’s manufacturing might.
Conclusion
Given its enormous production capacities spanning every quality tier and price point, China rightfully earned its title as the world’s sunglass factory floor. For startups and conglomerates alike, collaborating with Chinese producers enables the creation of almost any eyewear vision at a mass scale. However, geopolitical tensions continue to threaten easy access to China’s manufacturing riches. Prudent brands are wisely expanding supply chains across Southeast Asia and reshoring automated production when viable. But as China’s expertise, infrastructure and incentives sustain the country’s dominance, sourcing sunglasses from this manufacturing superpower remains a compelling option for balancing quality and affordability.
Are you planning to start the sunglasses business? There are hundreds of reasons for launching a sunglasses brand. Even the market demand is relatively HIGH.
You can estimate it from the Statista statistics about the sunglasses. According to Statista, the sunglasses industry stands at 24.55 BILLION USD. And it is growing at an annual rate of 4.86%.
Isn’t it enough to know the peak market demand for sunglasses?
Before commencing your business journey, one thing is for sure: you must have sunglass makers. Do you have that? If not, it’s not a BIG deal. I have made a LIST of sunglass brands.
Let’s know!
1. Sunglasses Basics
1) What is a sunglasses manufacturing business?
The glasses business has been on the top for many years. All is possible due to their excess use. Do you know the reason?
It is a fashion item. That means you can go to the party. Wear them. And impress your guests. Above all, the glasses business is rising. So, it can be a hit of the moment to start making money.
For that, you need to OPEN an online store. Or have a local shop. Only then can you list the glasses items. And attract more buyers to make money.
2) Is it profitable to sell glasses?
Yes. It is 100% lucrative. Usually, you can save 30-50% per sunglasses item. Isn’t it a high margin?
For example:
You start an online store on Amazon. List the items up to 50 items. And invest 10K USD in the business. It depends on the sale. If you generate 5K USD sales, your profit is 20%. Then, you will make 1K USD per month or week.
For store owners, 1K USD is not a lesser amount. You can make more profits with the right eyeglass manufacturing companies.
3) Why should I start the glasses business?
Not one or two reasons are enough to start the glasses business. What is more crucial is the money? It is one’s target to achieve.
Apart from that, this business is relatively easy. You don’t have to invest a fortune. Only a few hundred bucks are enough to ignite the process.
To know more reasons, I have made a list of benefits. Check it out below.
2. Why should you work with Chinese Sunglass companies?
Maybe you wonder about custom eyewear manufacturers from China? Why you should not talk to USA suppliers.
The reason is a one-stop service. Complete shipment. Lower prices. And better facilities. Here is the list of benefits you get.
1) Lower prices
Want to become a billionaire? I am not joking; it is possible. Lower prices are the first rule of the business. And the Chinese follow it well.
Plus, you get access to many eyeglass manufacturing companies. That increases your simple approach to multiple suppliers. Ensure a fast deal. And brings up the best rates.
2) Quality Control
9 out of 10 businesses fail. Do you know the reason? They do not sell quality products. And do not get enough buyers as well.
That is the time you should make a name. And quality control is the right approach.
3) Bulk Production setup
Running out of products pauses your business. Not only do back orders increase, but customers also move to another buyer.
But bulk production can have a high stock. And make ongoing sales.
4) Custom sunglasses manufacturers
One way to win more clients is to ensure the features that they want. And it is something custom suppliers help you do.
You can get the desired quality and quantity of specs.
5) Private label sunglasses
Do you know how brands like Zara survive? They go for private labeling. It saves costs. And gives an upper hand over the rivals with premium quality glasses.
China suppliers provide this facility, too.
6) Easy talk
Maybe you think Language is a barrier. Yes, it is. But most suppliers know English. That makes the whole talk easier and better.
Plus, you get access to sourcing agents. They can solve this problem instantly.
7) Complete shipments
Shipment is a HEADACHE. Products don’t reach your home. Sometimes, you are out of the delivery area.
But that is not a problem. Chinese suppliers take your products to your location with a guarantee.
3. What should you look for in your Favorite Sunglasses manufacturers?
Are you finding eyeglasses manufacturers? The right supplier can be a tough job. But no worries at all. I have picked up some golden points. And helped you pick the right supplier in the blink of an eye.
Here are points to look for in a supplier.
1) Popularity of the sunglasses manufacturer
Popular means reliable supplier. That is like a filter to make the best choice. Therefore, take a look around. Know the most popular supplier.
And then talk to verify the quality!
2) Customer satisfaction rate
Does your supplier offer premium support? Only a reliable supplier focuses on customers. And pays heed to your issues.
Therefore, find suppliers with relatively high customer service.
3) Check the Quality Control Setup.
Do you want to ensure the best quality? Find a credible supplier. It is better to test the quality in your labs. For manual inspection, you can even visit the factory. Test the tools. And verify the product grade is the best.
4) How much profit margins do you make?
Do you want to make a higher profit? One simple strategy. Check the margins. Buy at low prices. And sell at a high.
And that is possible when your SUPPLIER offers a highly integral stock.
5) Does a sunglasses factory give certificates?
If you plan to sell in the US or UK market, one thing’s for sure— safety credentials. You can’t sell without those certificates.
Ensure your supplier provides the certificates.
6) Does your supplier allow white-label sunglasses?
White-label products are often branded items that brands sell under their label. You can get such quality glasses. And sell them under their brand name.
It will improve your brand presence.
4. Top 22 Sunglass Manufacturers from China
Chinese eyewear manufacturing companies are quite famous for their pricing and quality.
Here is the list of the 22 most popular eyewear manufacturers who provide US-MADE sunglasses of the best quality. Know them here.
1) Seasun Glasses
SeaSun is a TOP eyewear manufacturer. It has the best infrastructures with high-end tools for making sunglasses.
Its clients are Coca-Cola, Adidas, H&M, etc. They export 70% of their business sunglasses.
Here is why you should choose this sunglass factory.
2) Cheng Yi Optical
Cheng Yi has been selling sunglasses items for more than 40 years. Founded in 1978, it has invested a lot in creating original sunglasses.
Their long-term partners are from the US or Europe. Here are the key benefits of this supplier.
3) Shenzhen Gonbes Technology Co., Ltd.
Shenzhen Gonbes has its headquarters in Guangdong. It has a high production, shipping up to 5 million pairs of products across multiple countries.
They invest in research and development and bring out the best technical products to support consumers.
Here are some pros.
4) Raymio Eyewear Co., Ltd.
Raymio Eyewear looks to be a new brand, but it is not in terms of quality. Founded in 2020, it has a large manufacturing plant. Quality equipment facility. And shipping to different countries like the US and UK.
Here are some pros.
5) FC Optics
You can consider it the best sunglasses supplier. Quality and pricing are both best at FC Optics.
They have a big sunglass factory. And export 90% of their products to foreign countries. You get what others don’t provide.
Here are some pros.
6) Xiamen Langxue Spectacles Co., Ltd.
It is not a new supplier in the market. With 20+ years in the sunglasses market, it has some serious quality stuff. They allow you to test the products.
You can get custom services as well. Here are some pros of this supplier.
7) Wenzhou Readsun Optical Co., Ltd.
If I had to recommend a supplier, Wenzhou Readsun would make a top place. 12000 meter square factory. Four production lines. 100 staff members. What else do you even expect to make a supplier perfect?
Quality is also there. They have sold their sunglasses to famous American brands. Here are some key benefits of working with this supplier.
8) Wenzhou G&D Glasses Co., Ltd.
Wenzhou G&D does not compromise the quality. Founded in 1999, it has served thousands of buyers all around the globe.
200 full-time employees. Four production lines. And annual 700K sunglasses production is no less than the PYRAMIDS of Gaza.
Here are some positive points about this supplier.
9) SKY & Sea Intl Sunglasses
Sky and Sea is not new to the INDUSTRY. Having a large setup, it has won many feats in the industry. Not only is the product quality reliable but also the transport system. It is truly a fortune to work with this supplier.
It has 200 employees and thousands of eyewear items. In a snap of a finger, you’ll be a digger exploring the best products.
Here are some key benefits of this sunglasses supplier.
10) Taizhou Youto Glasses
Another giant in the Sunglasses manufacturers is the Taizhou Youto Glasses. It has ten production lines. And produce 5 million sunglasses annually. Unbelievable fact!
Founded in 2010, it has served consumers all around the globe. Here are some key points about this supplier.
11) Sky & Sea Optical
It is one of the most renowned sunglasses suppliers across the world. Founded in 2007, it has been leading the market for years.
They have five production lines. And follow International standards. Here are some pros of this supplier.
12) SUNOK Glasses
When we talk about the sunglasses world, how can you even forget the Sunok sunglasses? Sunok is a TOP sunglasses manufacturer that has achieved milestones in the sunglasses industry.
Here are some of its benefits.
13) Sunhaven Optical
Founded in 1983, Sunhaven has brought buyers to the sunglasses heaven. A high collection. Complete shipment to their locations. And above all, the quality manufacturing. All you are going to get from this supplier.
Here is more you can get.
14) Wenzhou Lenlook International Trade Co., Ltd.
Lenlook is the kingmaker of the eyewear field. It has been working for the past fifteen years. They focus on the product quality. And give their best to impress you.
Here are some benefits of working with this supplier.
15) Yiwu CONCHEN Glasses Co., Ltd.
It is one of the top custom sunglasses manufacturers, putting your business on the top. Top quality. Best staff. All you have to do is to contact them. Get the quote. And decide on their quality items.
Curious to know more about the benefits? Read them here.
16) Xiamen Jiayu Optical Co., Ltd.
Xiamen Jiayu Optical has had a market presence for 15+ years. Best quality. Wide collection. And many more sunglasses products you can get.
Here are some pros of this supplier.
17) Wenzhou Sanshan Optical Co., Ltd.
Sanshan Optical has built its name in the international market. Over 30 million users are enough to GUARANTEE its best quality.
Founded in 1999, it has served thousands of consumers around the globe. There are many benefits to working with this supplier. These include:
18) Taizhou Cramilo Glasses Co., Ltd
Taizhou Cramilo Glasses are famous for their quality, private labeling, and bulk production. This supplier facilitates buyers. And builds a long-term relationship with them.
There are many benefits to working with them.
19) Wenzhou Kangjing Optics Co., Ltd
It is one of the best sunglasses companies. Their best thing is the R&D process. They go on introducing new rules. Help you get made-in-USA sunglasses that sell in the USA and worldwide.
Want to know more about their benefits? These are:
20) Taizhou Jiaojiang Dubery E-Commerce Co., Ltd.
I want to KEEP it on the list of TOP sunglasses manufacturers USA; no doubt it belongs to China. However, complete shipping facilities do not restrict their business to China only. Buyers can quickly ship products. Get more business expansion. And enter the US market.
Here are some benefits.
21) Wenzhou Faith Import & Export Co., Ltd.
Are you looking for the best Sun glass manufacturers in CHINA? Don’t forget Faith Import and Export. They have an experience of 20+ years. And know how to sell quality sunglasses.
Here are some of the critical benefits of this sunglass manufacturer.
22) Zhejiang Boom Glasses Co., Ltd.
Boom glasses are where an eyewear company has to invest a lot. They have an efficient supply chain. And introduce new technological equipment to improve the production of sunglasses.
Here are some benefits of the suppliers.
5. FAQs
1) How much do you make when selling sunglasses?
It all depends on your business. If your sales are 100K USD per month, you can make up to 20-30K USD per month. The margins for Made in America Sunglasses can be up to 50-100%. Keep that in mind when starting the business!
2) Who is the largest manufacturer of sunglass products?
Italy is the largest sunglasses manufacturer, exporting 3.3 billion USD in sunglasses. China comes in second place with 2.1 billion USD in sunglasses exports. The USA, France, Japan, and the Netherlands are other popular manufacturing countries.
3) Which brand is Famous among Sunglass manufacturers?
Ray-Ban always comes on the top when it comes to sunglasses. It was founded in 1936 as sunglass manufacturers USA. But now, it is not only in the TOP AMERICAN sunglasses brands but also in the whole world.
4) Which Quality of sunglasses is best?
UV rays blocking sunglasses are considered to be the best quality sunglasses. They have high strength and keep eyes safe with 100% protection from UV light.
5) How should I grab Quality sunglasses from sunglass vendors?
Deploy quality control in the production process of lowercase glasses. It will give you an idea of QUALITY manufacturing. And help you grab better-quality Polarized sunglasses made in USA.
Endnote
Have you got the proper American-made sunglasses manufacturer? If yes, that would be the best. Otherwise, you should list some top-quality sunglasses made in America. Ask your supplier to provide that—test quality. And build long-term relationships.
That is the secret to lower prices when you have a strong and permanent connection with your sunglasses suppliers.