More than 700 exhibitors from 17 countries and regions will participate in the upcoming 32nd Hong Kong International Optical Fair, scheduled for 6-8 November at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA), this year’s fair, themed Seeing is Believing, will showcase cutting-edge eyewear designs and products, bringing together industry professionals to explore new business opportunities.
Sophia Chong, Acting Executive Director of the HKTDC, highlighted the fair as a long-standing industry event that has become increasingly international over the years, attracting a diverse range of exhibitors. The event’s focus will align with key market trends such as technology, lifestyle, functionality, and sustainability, which are critical aspects driving the evolution in eyewear design and technology.
Hong Kong is recognized as the world’s third-largest exporter of eyewear and frames, with the total export value of eyewear lenses and frames reaching an estimated HK$199 billion in 2023, indicating substantial growth. The smart eyewear market, in particular, has become a focal point, with its global valuation exceeding HK$40 billion in 2023 and projected to surpass HK$100 billion by 2029.
Exhibitors from various parts of the world, including notable regions in Europe such as France, Germany, and the UK, as well as countries like Japan and South Korea in Asia, will present their latest products at the fair. Prominent Hong Kong brands will also make a strong appearance, and the fair will feature several group pavilions, including those from Mainland China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.
The Brand Name Gallery will serve as the centerpiece of the fair, displaying over 200 renowned global brands. Additional zones of the fair will cover a wide array of eyewear products, including smart eyewear, contact lenses, accessories, sporting eyewear, children’s eyewear, reading glasses, and much more, alongside diagnostic instruments and equipment.
The 22nd Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium, taking place on 7 November, will address important topics concerning myopia control and prevention. This event is co-organized by the HKTDC, the Hong Kong Optometric Association, and The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, featuring discussions led by scholars from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Australia, and Germany.
Additionally, the fair will host various talks and seminars covering advancements in smart eyewear, functional eyewear, and sustainability in the industry. To encourage creativity and innovation within Hong Kong, the HKTDC and HKOMA will run the 24th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition, with results to be announced during the fair.
During the exhibition, which will utilize a hybrid model, exhibitors and buyers will have the opportunity to connect both in-person and online through the Click2Match business matching platform. Buyers can further engage through the Scan2Match feature on the HKTDC Marketplace App, allowing them to scan QR codes of exhibitors and explore product information.
This year’s Optical Fair promises to be an exciting platform for industry players to showcase their innovative eyewear products while embracing the latest trends in technology, functionality, and sustainability.