Core Insights - The Southeast Asian market is experiencing rapid growth, with a noticeable increase in acceptance of Chinese brands, as highlighted by the founder of Yifu Glasses, who secured a signing intention worth over $1.5 million with Vietnam's largest distributor [1][3] Group 1: Market Dynamics - Wenzhou, a key hub for the eyewear industry in China, has a complete industrial chain from design to production, and is now focusing on Southeast Asia as a new growth area due to the saturation of traditional markets [3][5] - The ASEAN Eyewear Expo, the largest of its kind in the region, attracted over 5,500 professional buyers from more than 50 countries, indicating strong international interest [3][11] - The event showcased 230 companies and over 100 well-known domestic and international brands, covering the entire eyewear supply chain [3][11] Group 2: Strategic Initiatives - The Wenzhou Municipal Council for the Promotion of International Trade organized the expo as part of a new outbound strategy to create a "golden platform" for local brands to enter the ASEAN market [3][9] - Prior to the expo, training sessions on ASEAN legal compliance and intellectual property protection were conducted to prepare local businesses for international expansion [9][11] - The success of the expo is seen as a starting point for Wenzhou's ongoing efforts to leverage exhibitions to enhance production and trade [11][12] Group 3: Brand Positioning - Chinese brands are increasingly favored in Southeast Asia due to their better alignment with local consumer preferences in terms of design and comfort [5][7] - Local companies are adapting their product offerings to meet the aesthetic preferences of Southeast Asian consumers, indicating a shift from merely selling products to building an ecosystem [8][11] - The second ASEAN Eyewear Expo is scheduled for October 2026, with plans to expand into new product categories and deepen industry collaboration [12]

Group 1 - The 2025 ASEAN International Optical Exhibition commenced in Bangkok, featuring a three-day event organized by Dena Exhibition and Boguang International, with support from various associations [1] - The exhibition covers over 10,000 square meters and showcases 230 quality exhibitors, including products and services related to sunglasses, optical frames, children's glasses, lenses, contact lenses, eye health services, and equipment [4] - The event attracted professional visitors from over 30 countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and India, comprising regional agents, distributors, e-commerce platforms, and retail terminals [4] Group 2 - The exhibition features an international brand area and an Asian original designer area, highlighting the global optical industry landscape and catering to the demand for personalized, original, and high-value products [5] - Several smart eyewear companies showcased cutting-edge products, allowing attendees to experience the immersive interaction and intelligent applications of AI glasses, indicating a deep integration of artificial intelligence with the eyewear industry [5] - The event also includes a series of activities such as the Asia-Pacific Eye Health Summit, Thailand Optometry Association seminar, and Asia-Pacific Optometry Forum, providing multidimensional communication opportunities for exhibitors and buyers [7]