Latest CIPA stats show interchangeable-lens cameras and lenses losing favour

This graph compares interchangeable-lens camera shipments from Japanese companies over the past three years, showing a sharp decline in August 2025. (Source: CIPA.)

The August graphs also show a parallel rise in shipments of cameras with built-in lenses, which has continued for the entire year so far. This parallels a similar report from the Japanese Kakaku Magazine, which claims compact cameras are making a comeback following three years in decline. In particular, the report highlights the popularity of the Fujifilm X100VI, a ‘premium APS-C camera celebrated for its retro design, fixed 23mm f/2 lens, and cutting-edge features’. The article also notes that ‘while major camera makers pulled away from compact cameras over the past decade, niche models with strong brand identity and advanced specs are carving out a profitable market segment. For photographers who value discretion, design, and direct tactile controls, compacts are more attractive than ever.’ Other models enjoying revived sales include the Ricoh GR series (which was recently updated with a new model), the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III, OM System Tough TG-7, Panasonic TZ series and Sony RX100 VII, some of which date back to the previous decade and are only available on the secondhand market. Also only available secondhand – although still sought after – is the Panasonic LX100 II (on which the Leica D-Lux 8 is based).

This graph compares the fixed-lens camera shipments from Japanese companies over the past three years, showing a steady increase in shipments in the year to August 2025. (Source: CIPA.)

This graph shows the drop in shipments of interchangeable lenses from Japanese companies in August 2025 compared with volumes over the past three years. (Source: CIPA.)

Camera and lens sales in the Northern Hemisphere tend to flatten out in June, which is when many people take their annual holidays, before increasing in September when work and school resume and building up to the holiday season around Christmas and New Year. It’s worth noting the CIPA figures only use data from Japanese manufacturers so information about cameras and lenses made by manufacturers in China, Germany or other countries is not included.  We’ll continue to track this market to see whether the trend towards fixed lens cameras persists.