India Roars Ahead as Top Watch Market for Swiss Makers

The Indian market is rapidly growing for Swiss watchmakers, driven by first-time luxury buyers, premium retail expansion, and lower trade barriers. According to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (FH), India imported 200,000 Swiss watches in the first six months of 2026, up nearly 37% from a year earlier.

The value of those imports rose more than 31% to 168.7 million Swiss francs (about ₹1,991 crore). This growth lifted India to become the world's 15th-largest export market for Swiss watches, up from 21st a year earlier, even as global exports by volume fell 0.7%.

Industry executives attribute India's growth to increasing demand due to rising purchasing power and wealth among the middle class. The entry into force of the free trade agreement between Switzerland and India last October has also contributed to this growth.