In a landmark development for India’s retail sector, Casio India, a subsidiary of Japan-based Casio Computer Co. Ltd., announced the commencement of sales for its locally manufactured watch models on August 12, 2025, marking a pivotal step in deepening its presence in one of its priority markets. This strategic initiative, which aligns with India’s “Make in India” campaign, underscores Casio’s commitment to delivering products tailored to Indian consumer preferences while enhancing supply chain efficiency and supporting national manufacturing goals.
The company has launched three locally produced watch models through a third-party manufacturer, with plans to introduce several more in the near future, as confirmed by Casio India’s Managing Director, Takuto Kimura. This follows the company’s announcement in September 2023 to initiate local production, a move driven by India’s growing importance as a market with a burgeoning youth population and evolving fashion trends.
Since entering India in 1996, Casio has built a reputation for innovation, reliability, and style, offering a diverse portfolio that includes timepieces, electronic musical instruments, calculators, and more. The decision to manufacture locally is both strategic and symbolic, enabling Casio to respond swiftly to the dynamic demands of Indian consumers, who increasingly seek products that blend global quality with local relevance. “India has always been a priority market for Casio, and we continue to see immense potential for growth here,” Kimura stated. “By manufacturing locally, we are better equipped to design and deliver products that truly resonate with the Indian mindset and lifestyle.”
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The locally manufactured models, which combine Casio’s renowned Japanese technology with India’s robust manufacturing ecosystem, began sales at the end of July 2025. Unlike earlier reports suggesting only three models, some sources indicate that Casio is producing 28 specially curated watch models, designed to cater to diverse consumer segments, from fashion-forward youth to professionals seeking functional elegance. These models are crafted to reflect Indian tastes, incorporating vibrant designs, durable materials, and features suited to the country’s climate and lifestyle, such as water resistance and robust build quality.
This initiative is expected to streamline Casio’s supply chain, reduce reliance on imports, and lower costs, making its products more competitive in the mid-premium watch segment. With India’s watch market projected to grow significantly, driven by a young, aspirational demographic, Casio’s move positions it to capture a larger share of the market, which includes both luxury and affordable segments. The company has planned aggressive promotional campaigns for the upcoming festive season, a peak sales period in India, to spotlight its “Made in India” lineup, leveraging platforms like e-commerce and exclusive Casio stores.
The decision also aligns with India’s broader economic goals, contributing to job creation and skill development in the manufacturing sector. By partnering with local third-party manufacturers, Casio ensures that its stringent quality standards are met while fostering economic growth. This move has been praised by industry experts as a consumer-first approach that enhances product availability and reduces time-to-market for new designs, positioning Casio to compete effectively against both global and homegrown brands like Titan and Fastrack.
However, challenges remain, including navigating India’s complex regulatory environment and addressing consumer perceptions about locally made products versus imported ones. Posts on X reflect mixed sentiments globally about local manufacturing, with some users emphasizing the value of domestically produced goods for economic benefits, while others question the quality of non-Japanese manufacturing. Casio’s rigorous quality evaluations, conducted in collaboration with local partners, aim to address these concerns, ensuring that “Made in India” watches maintain the brand’s global standards.
As Casio expands its local production, the company is poised to strengthen its foothold in India’s competitive retail landscape. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and consumer-centric design, Casio’s “Made in India” watches represent a significant milestone in its nearly three-decade journey in the country, promising a future where global expertise meets local aspirations.
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