The 34th Hong Kong International Optical Fair opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, running for three consecutive days through 6 November. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, the event under the theme "Bright Eyes-New Horizons" brings together more than 600 exhibitors from 14 countries and regions, as reported by NEWMEDIAWIRE.
The scale of the gathering underscores how quickly the optical sector is being reshaped by shifting consumer preferences, supply chains and technology. Patrick Yeung, Council Member of the HKTDC, said 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 industry. That framing matters for buyers and manufacturers alike: eyewear is no longer only a fashion and vision-correction category, but increasingly a health-monitoring and assistive technology market.
HKTDC Acting Executive Director Smilely Lam said the fair serves as a dynamic marketplace where buyers can discover new opportunities and connect with trusted suppliers. Buying missions from 34 countries and regions, including Indonesia and Malaysia from ASEAN, Korea, France, the United Kingdom and Brazil, are attending to facilitate trade cooperation and market information exchange.
Exhibitors span Hong Kong, the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, and across Asia, Europe and the United States, with pavilions from the HKOMA, Danyang, Zhejiang, Yingtan, Taiwan, ASEAN, Korea and the Fukui Optical Association. The Brand Name Gallery features some 200 brands and designer collections, while specialised zones cover smart eyewear, designer products, contact lenses, diagnostic instruments, frames and lenses. Among the highlights, Hong Kong firm Lawaken Technology is presenting AI Memory Glasses with a 10-gram detachable magnetic camera that can organise conversations and generate meeting minutes, while Shenzhen GetD Technology is showing AI glasses that monitor neck health, detect falls and support translation in more than 145 languages.
Three thematic labels, Smart Ageing Products, Smart Eyewear and Green Solutions, help buyers navigate these trends. Italian exhibitor Divel Italia is presenting progressive lenses designed for seniors, and Hong Kong's Best Power is showing bone conduction hearing glasses with replaceable reading lenses. On sustainability, Brevno crafts frames from wood, recycled plastics and acetate, while Greatland Enterprise uses materials made from 100% recycled fishing nets.
The fair's knowledge programme includes the 24th Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium on 5 November, accredited by the Optometrists Board of Hong Kong, with participants eligible for up to six Continuing Professional Development hours. Full fair details are available on the event website, with the programme listed in the intelligence hub and symposium information published online. The HKTDC, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub through international exhibitions, conferences and business missions, and publishes market insights through research reports.
The fair continues to run on the EXHIBITION+ hybrid model, with online business matching available until 13 November. For an industry facing demographic change and rapid wearable innovation, the event offers an early read on where demand is heading.
