In 2025, the global watch strap market is experiencing dynamic growth, influenced by various factors such as technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and the expansion of end - use industries. Watch straps, whether for watches, packaging, or other applications, have become an essential part of our daily lives and industrial processes.

The global watch strap market is projected to reach $8.5 billion in 2025, with a 12.3% CAGR (Statista). China dominates 45% of exports, followed by Vietnam and India.

China's Dominance in Watch Strap Exports​

According to Volza's global export data, which tracks over 2 billion export shipment records, China has emerged as a leading exporter of watch straps. From February 2023 to January 2024 (TTM), China led the world in watch straps and HSN code 9102910000 exports with 438 shipments. In total, during this period, the world exported 4 shipments of such watch straps, made by 3 exporters to 4 buyers, showing a growth rate of - 93% compared to the preceding twelve months. However, within this complex picture, China's position remains strong. In January 2024 alone, global watch strap exports showed a 1% year - on - year growth compared to January 2023 and a 1% sequential growth from December 2024.​

Most of the watch straps exported from the world, including those from China, are destined for countries like Peru, Ukraine, and Kazakhstan. The Chinese watch strap industry has been able to meet the diverse demands of these international markets by offering a wide range of products, from high - end leather straps to affordable silicone and stainless - steel options. With the growing popularity of smartwatches globally, the demand for compatible and stylish watch straps has also increased. Chinese manufacturers have been quick to adapt, producing straps that not only fit various smartwatch models but also incorporate the latest design trends, such as customizable buckles and eco - friendly materials.​

Recycled silicone and bio-based PU straps: A Booming Segment in the Global Market​

The plastic straps market is another area where significant growth is being witnessed. The market size of plastic straps is forecast to reach $6.2 billion by 2026, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18.5% during 2021 - 2026. This growth is mainly driven by the increasing usage of plastic straps in various end - use industries. Polyester straps, polypropylene straps, and nylon straps are widely used in automotive, infrastructure, electronics, and paper industries, among others.​

China is also a major player in the plastic strap export market. The country benefits from its large - scale manufacturing capabilities and access to raw materials. Polypropylene straps, for example, held the largest share in the plastic strap market in 2020, up to 28%. Their popularity is due to several advantages, including high tensile strength, increased flexibility, lightweight, easy handling, excellent elongation, chemical resistance, and rustproof properties. They are also suitable for both automatic and semi - automatic strapping machines and are often recyclable, making them an environmentally friendly option.​

The demand for plastic straps in the paper industry, which held the largest share in the plastic straps market in 2020 and is growing at a CAGR of 18.7%, is also fueling China's exports. Plastic straps are used together with baling wire for bundling newspapers and magazines, ensuring convenient handling and shipping. As the production and distribution of print media continue to grow in emerging economies, especially in Asia - Pacific, the demand for plastic straps in this sector is expected to remain strong.​

From info.21cp.com

Popular Export Destinations and Market Trends​

In the global strap export market, certain destinations stand out as major importers. For general straps (with HSN code 83021090), the top importers include India, the United States, and Costa Rica. India, in particular, has seen significant import activity. From August 2023 to July 2024 (TTM), the world exported 52 shipments of straps with this HSN code to India. These exports were made by 8 exporters to 7 Indian buyers, marking a growth rate of - 20% compared to the preceding twelve months. In July 2024 alone, 2 export shipments were made to India, showing a year - on - year growth of 2% compared to July 2023 and a 2% sequential growth from June 2024.​

Consumer trends are also shaping the strap market. There is a growing preference for sustainable and eco - friendly materials in all types of straps. In the watch strap segment, consumers are increasingly choosing straps made from recycled materials, organic leather, or innovative synthetic materials that mimic the look and feel of traditional materials but with a lower environmental impact. In the plastic strap market, the development of biodegradable plastic straps is gaining traction, especially in regions with strict environmental regulations.​

Moreover, with the rise of e - commerce and the increasing number of online shoppers worldwide (as of 2023, China had 10.92 billion netizens with a growing online shopping population), the online sales of straps have seen a significant boost. This has enabled Chinese exporters to reach a wider customer base, bypassing traditional distribution channels in some cases and directly engaging with consumers in international markets.​

In conclusion, the strap export market in 2025 offers numerous opportunities for Chinese exporters. By staying attuned to global market trends, technological advancements, and consumer preferences, and leveraging its manufacturing prowess, China is well - positioned to further expand its share in the global strap market. Whether it's through innovation in materials, design, or distribution channels, the future of China's strap exports looks promising.

If you are interested in it, please click here to contact us for competitive OEM/ODM solutions.