The 34th Hong Kong International Optical Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Running for three days under the theme "Bright Eyes-New Horizons," the fair brings together more than 600 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions, positioning itself as a critical marketplace for an industry being reshaped by demographic shifts and technological innovation.
The fair's significance lies in its focus on emerging growth drivers. Patrick Yeung, Council Member of the HKTDC, noted at the opening ceremony that "sustainability, innovation, the rise of the silver economy and increased health awareness are emerging as key growth drivers for the optical industry." This is reflected in three thematic labels: Smart Ageing Products, Smart Eyewear, and Green Solutions. These labels help buyers quickly identify products aligned with market trends, highlighting exhibitors' achievements in addressing the needs of an ageing population, advancing smart technology, and promoting sustainability.
Among the Smart Ageing Products, Italian exhibitor Divel Italia presents progressive lenses designed specifically for seniors, using Vision Smart Technology to enhance stability and reduce peripheral distortion. Hong Kong's Best Power (HK) Enterprises showcases Swap-Battery Bone Conduction Hearing Glasses that integrate hearing aid functionality with eyewear, addressing both hearing and vision requirements. These innovations cater to a growing silver economy, where eyewear is increasingly seen as a health and lifestyle enabler.
Smart Eyewear is another major highlight. Sichuan Yingmu Technology's INMO Air3 smart glasses feature a Sony Micro OLED display, Android 14 ecosystem, and a ChatGPT-powered AI voice assistant, offering an intelligent wearable experience. Shenzhen GetD Technology's GSPRO series combines health monitoring with Apple Find My technology and GPT/Gemini AI for real-time translation in over 145 languages. Such products signal a future where eyewear transcends vision correction to become multifunctional smart devices.
Sustainability is equally prominent, with the Green Solutions label featuring companies like Brevno, which crafts frames from natural and recycled materials, and Greatland Enterprise, which uses 100% recycled fishing nets. The fair also organised a Green Booth Design Competition to encourage sustainable practices, with Eyestar Limited winning the Gold Award. These efforts underscore the industry's response to environmental concerns and changing consumer preferences.
The fair's comprehensive nature is further illustrated by its diverse zones, including the Brand Name Gallery featuring some 200 renowned brands, and specialised areas for contact lenses, diagnostic instruments, and sporting eyewear. The event also includes the 24th Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium, focusing on primary eye care, and the 26th Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition, which nurtures local design talent. For more details, the fair's website and event details are available online, and competition results can be found here.
With buying missions from 34 countries and regions, the fair facilitates international trade and knowledge exchange. As Smilely Lam, HKTDC Acting Executive Director, stated, the fair "serves as a dynamic marketplace where buyers can discover new opportunities, connect with trusted suppliers and gain valuable insights into emerging market trends." The HKTDC's broader mission to promote Hong Kong as a two-way global investment hub is supported by its international exhibitions and research reports, reinforcing the fair's role in shaping the industry's future.
