In the fair city of Izmir, Optic World Izmir – 2nd Optics, Eyewear, Ophthalmology and Technologies Fair, where the latest technologies in the optical sector are showcased, has opened its doors. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Mayor Dr. Cemil Tugay stated that Optic World Izmir will continue to grow in the coming years, saying, “Trade fairs are part of Izmir’s tradition. Fuar Izmir is poised to become a center of attraction in this sector, just as it is in many others.”

Hosted by Izmir Metropolitan Municipality and organized by İZFAŞ with the support of the sector, Optic World Izmir – 2nd Optics, Eyewear, Ophthalmology and Technologies Fair has opened at Fuar Izmir. After attracting nearly 5,000 visitors last year, the fair will once again be open exclusively to professional visitors until February 23.

The opening ceremony, held in Hall C, was attended by Izmir Metropolitan Mayor Dr. Cemil Tugay, Izmir Chamber of Commerce Assembly Chairman Selami Özpoyraz, Izmir Metropolitan Municipality Secretary General and İZFAŞ Board Chairman Ramazan Tezcan, İZFAŞ General Manager Tuğçe Cumalıoğlu, optical sector professionals, representatives of political parties, assembly members, and domestic and international buyers.

Tugay: “We Attach Great Importance to Fuar Izmir”

Emphasizing the value of the optical sector, Mayor Dr. Cemil Tugay stated:

“We are hosting a fair that we believe will develop even more rapidly in the coming years. Trade fairs are deeply rooted in Izmir’s tradition. Fuar Izmir is becoming a center of attraction for this sector, as it is for many others.

We have taken the necessary steps to extend the Buca Metro line to this area, enabling comfortable and modern public transportation from the city center to the fairground. We are also planning to build a large hotel on the area currently used as a parking lot. Together with my colleagues, we have discussed the project. We are progressing step by step in terms of a congress center and meeting halls, and the road connections to this area will also be improved.

This area will transform into a venue with easier access, nearby accommodation, and meeting facilities. We attach great importance to Fuar Izmir and will continue working to ensure its development.”

“We Hosted 1.5 Million Visitors Last Year”

Stating that efforts to strengthen exhibition activities will continue, Mayor Tugay said:

“Throughout history, Izmir has been a city where trade, culture, and innovation meet. Today, through fairs, we continue to connect with the world, strengthen collaborations, and grow our economy.

As Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, through national and international fairs organized under the leadership of İZFAŞ, we aim to increase the city’s trade volume, support domestic producers, and enhance our competitiveness in global markets. Our priority is to contribute to the economic development of our city and our country.

Last year, we welcomed 1.5 million visitors at the fairs we organized. When we look at export statistics for 2024, we see that—with the contribution of fairs—the total exports of provinces in the Aegean Region reached approximately USD 41 billion. Izmir alone accounted for 9 percent of Türkiye’s total exports, contributing nearly USD 24 billion to the national economy.

This year, by hosting numerous fairs, we will continue to do our utmost to increase economic activity across all sectors. In 2025, more than 30 fairs and events will be held at Fuar Izmir and Kültürpark.”

Türkiye’s Optical Sector Strengthens Its International Competitiveness

At the fair, the latest products, accessories, and equipment, as well as new technologies developed to enhance vision quality and meet aesthetic needs, are being showcased. Held across a 6,000-square-meter exhibition area, the fair hosts 56 domestic exhibitors from Izmir, Istanbul, Antalya, Balıkesir, Manisa, and Yozgat.

In addition, more than 100 international purchasing professionals from countries such as Germany, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Algeria, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Iraq, Iran, Kosovo, and Egypt are expected to visit the fair.

Optic World Izmir provides an important platform for industry professionals seeking to follow the latest technological developments, establish new business collaborations, and strengthen their position in international competition. By bringing together a wide visitor profile—from manufacturers and distributors to retail chains and sector employees—the fair paves the way for new partnerships. At the same time, it aims to enhance the international competitiveness of Türkiye’s optical sector and facilitate access to innovative products.