From fashion statements to vision solutions, contact lenses have become a way of life in Japan. With an adoption rate that’s far higher than in many other countries, Japan’s contact lens market is a thriving industry. But what’s fueling this remarkable trend? Is it simply a matter of convenience? Qualtech is here to shed light on the reasons behind Japan’s contact lens popularity, exploring the market’s growth, the factors driving it, and the potential for future expansion.
Factors Contributing to High Contact Lens Use in Japan
High Prevalence of Myopia: Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a common condition in Japan. In 2020, nearly half (49.97%) of the population was found to be myopic, with 7.89% having high myopia. This creates a significant demand for corrective lenses.
Contact Lenses for Fashion and Active Lifestyles: Contact lenses are popular among young women in Japan for aesthetic reasons and ease of makeup application. They offer a more natural look compared to glasses and allow for seamless blending of eye makeup. Additionally, their unrestricted vision and secure fit make them a preferred choice for active individuals, such as athletes and travelers. The cultural emphasis on appearance in Japan further contributes to this trend.
Japan Leads Imports, Drives Contact Lens Market Growth
Dominant Importer: Japan is the world’s leading importer of contact lenses, reflecting the strong domestic demand. In 2022, it imported a staggering US$1.37 billion worth of contact lenses, while exporting only US$43.8 million. This highlights the country’s reliance on imports to meet the growing demand.
Market Growth: As of 2023, Japan ranks second in the global contact lens market with sales figures of US$2.6 billion, only behind the United States. Japanese market is projected to reach US$528.84 million by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.93%. This indicates a promising future for the Japanese contact lens market.
Daily Disposables Drive Sales & Infrastructure Supports Opportunities
Daily Disposable Dominance: Daily disposable lenses, with its convenience and hygiene benefits, have a high adoption rate among contact lens wearers in Japan, accounting for over 60% of all prescribed soft lenses. This translates to frequent repurchases and a lucrative market for manufacturers and retailers.
Established Ophthalmology Infrastructure: Japan has a well-established ophthalmology infrastructure, with approximately 2,340 hospitals having dedicated ophthalmology departments as of October 2022. This facilitates contact lens sales and ensures proper patient care. The availability of qualified eye care professionals contributes to the overall health and satisfaction of contact lens wearers.
Conclusion
Japan's contact lens market is a goldmine for foreign manufacturers. With its high adoption rate, sophisticated consumers, and growing demand for innovative products, Japan offers a lucrative opportunity for companies looking to expand their products reach. By understanding the unique preferences and cultural factors that drive the Japanese market, foreign manufacturers can tailor their offerings to meet the needs of this discerning consumer base and capitalize on the immense potential of this thriving industry.
Ready to conquer the Japanese contact lens market?
Qualtech is your trusted partner as we have a history of successfully supporting companies with regulatory compliance and clinical trial design for contact lens products. Therefore, our Japanese expert team can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you navigate the complexities of this market and achieve your business goals. Contact us today to learn more!
Reference:
- Revenue of the contact lenses market worldwide by country in 2023
- Contact lens imports data
- Myopia Prevalence and Ocular Biometry Features in a General Japanese Population: The Nagahama Study
- Number of general hospitals with ophthalmology departments in Japan from 2014 to 2022
- Contact Lenses - The Stats Behind The Lens
- NO-FEE CE: DAILY DISPOSABLES VERSUS REUSABLES: WHICH TECHNOLOGY WINS?