Nov. 15, 2023 — The 31st HKTDC Hong Kong International Optical Fair, organized by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association, was held Nov. 8-10. The three-day fair gathered more than 12,000 buyers from 92 countries and 700 exhibitors from 11 countries and regions.
Eyecare Business magazine attended the fair, with EB managing editor Kerri Ann Raimo hosting a Market Talk on upcoming eyewear trends and the emphasis of sustainability within the optical sector. Eco-friendly and sustainable product was a key theme at the trade show; the Hong Kong Eyewear Design Competition featured submissions under the umbrella of “Sustainable Living.”
Smart eyewear and artificial intelligence (AI) were also prominent subjects at the optical fair, with a dedicated smart eyewear zone that showcased new eyewear-related technologies and services, including eyewear with ChatGPT functionality.
The fair’s 21st Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium, themed “Empowering Community Eye Care through Artificial Intelligence and Telemedicine in Optometry,” focused on technological advancements in the optometry space.
“This is an exciting time, as many technologies suited for the visually impaired can now be accessed through apps,” says Patrick D. Yoshinaga, O.D., MPH, FAAO, of the Marshall B. Ketchum University.
Fashion-forward frames were on display at the optical fair’s central Brand Name Gallery, where several eyewear parades took place, featuring professional models presenting eyewear designs from trendsetting brands.
The fair’s Exhibition+ model allowed industry professionals to continue the conversation outside of the physical exhibition via an online platform accessible until Nov. 17.
“The Hong Kong International Optical Fair has always been committed to providing a multifaceted, one-stop sourcing platform for exhibitors and buyers and the HKTDC expected the industry to create business opportunities through both the physical exhibition and online platform,” says Sophia Chong, HKTDC deputy executive director.
View photos from the fair here.