‘World class’ education on show at BCLA Asia conference

The British Contact Lens Association has hailed the success of its 2026 BCLA Asia Conference after more than 450 delegates gathered at the Takanawa Gateway Convention Centre in Tokyo for world-class education, scientific exchange and professional networking.

Held in partnership with the Japan Contact Lens Society (JCLS), the conference brought together clinicians, researchers, academics and industry leaders from across Asia and around the world, reinforcing BCLA’s position as the leading global association for contact lens and anterior eye professionals – with a continually growing audience.

The packed programme featured three specialist symposia, cutting-edge free paper presentations and scientific poster displays, providing delegates with the latest developments in clinical practice, research and innovation.

A highlight of the conference was the admission of 16 new BCLA Fellows, recognising their significant contribution to the profession and marking an important milestone in their professional development.

International expertise was a key feature of the event, with speakers travelling from Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom and across Asia to share their knowledge and insights.

The CooperVision-sponsored Myopia Management Symposium featured leading experts including Professor Pauline Cho from Hong Kong, while BCLA President Dr Byki Huntjens explored the implications of the TFOS DEWS III report for everyday clinical practice during the Menicon-sponsored Dry Eye Symposium.

The third symposium, sponsored by Ophtecs, examined the latest developments in contact lens solutions and the findings of BCLA’s CLEAR Presbyopia Report, led by BCLA Academic Chair and President-Elect Dr Debarun Dutta.

The scientific programme was further enhanced through lunchtime educational sessions supported by Gold Sponsor EssilorLuxottica and Platinum Sponsor Menicon, while a vibrant exhibition showcased leading organisations and innovations from Japan and around the world.

BCLA Chief Executive Brad Parkes praised the success of the conference and the strength of the partnership with JCLS.

“We were delighted to welcome more than 450 delegates to what proved to be an outstanding BCLA Asia Conference. The quality of the scientific programme, the calibre of our speakers and the enthusiasm of delegates demonstrated the value of bringing together experts from across the global contact lens and anterior eye community.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Professor Hori and the entire JCLS team for their collaboration in delivering such a successful event. We are also extremely grateful to our Platinum Sponsors, CooperVision, Menicon and Ophtecs, whose support enabled us to bring together an exceptional international faculty and deliver three high-quality symposia. The continued support of our partners is instrumental in helping BCLA advance education, research and professional development around the world.”

The three-day conference further strengthened BCLA’s growing presence across Asia and highlighted the association’s commitment to supporting excellence in contact lens and anterior eye care through education, research and international collaboration.

For more details visit www.bcla.org.uk