Swiss Watch Industry Sees Uptick in Exports as Recovery Takes Shape

By Andrea Figueras

Exports of Swiss watches stepped up in June, pointing to a gradual recovery in demand in a sector that has been hit by trade tariffs and geopolitical instability.

Total exports of timepieces made in Switzerland climbed 11% in June compared with the same period last year. Exports amounted to 2.39 billion Swiss francs, or $2.95 billion, according to data released by the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry on Tuesday.

The sector recorded growth in leading markets, including the U.S., where monthly exports grew nearly 15%, the industry body said.

The sector has grappled with President Trump's tariff policy--which at times targeted Swiss products particularly heavily--as well as generally sputtering demand for watches and other luxury goods. In addition, watchmakers are dealing with the consequences of the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, which has disrupted global travel and spooked consumers. For the first six months of 2026 as a whole, Swiss watch exports fell 0.7% on year.

"Looking ahead, we see potential upside from easing tensions in the Middle East, which could support inbound tourist flows in Europe, alongside a broader recovery in U.S. and European consumer sentiment," Citi analysts Thomas Chauvet and Alberto Cecchetto wrote in a note.

Risks remain for the sector, including higher oil prices, inflation, and a sudden reappearance of tariffs, which could still threaten the industry's drawn-out recovery, analysts at Bernstein wrote. But for now, demand for Swiss watches remains on track for a gradual recovery, they said.

Write to Andrea Figueras at andrea.figueras@wsj.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

July 21, 2026 08:53 ET (12:53 GMT)