The Current Situation of the Imported Contact Lens Market: Why Choose Imported Products?

As a foreign trade expert with 20 years of experience, I have witnessed the rapid development of the imported contact lens market. Currently, mid - to high - end products such as silicone hydrogels in China mainly rely on imports, and there are three reasons:

• Technical Gap: European and American brands are 2 - 3 generations ahead in material research and development
• Production Process: The edge treatment of imported products is smoother and more comfortable.
• Rich Product Categories: Special base curves, toric lenses, and other niche demands are more easily met.

The Four - Step Professional Purchase Process: More Caution Needed Than When Choosing Luxury Goods

In my foreign trade practice, I found that many consumers choose contact lenses as ordinary commodities, which is completely wrong!

Step 1: Start with an "annual car inspection"-like eye examination.

Just as imported vehicles must meet national standards to be roadworthy, your eyes also need an "annual inspection":

• Corneal topography examination: Equivalent to "tire wear inspection".
• Tear secretion test: akin to "engine oil condition check."
• Base curve measurement: akin to "steering wheel alignment parameter calibration"

Step 2: Understand the product's "Technical Specifications Sheet"

Having processed thousands of imported orders, I suggest paying special attention to:

• Oxygen permeability (DK/t): Just like the horsepower of a car, it is recommended to be ≥125
• Water content: 40%-60% is the "golden range".
• Material: Silicone hydrogel is the "premium-grade" material.

Step 3: Check the "Import Customs Clearance Certificate"

Every time during importcustoms clearance, the customs will conduct strict inspections:

• Medical DevicesRegistration Certificate (equivalent to "Import License")
• Chinese label (must include UV absorption category)
• Product batch inspection report

Step 4: Choose a Reliable "Importer"

Based on my industry experience, a high - quality importer should:

• Provide a complete copy of the customs declaration form
• Have queryable filing information on the Food and Drug Administration website
• Have a professional optometrist team

Key Customs Supervision Focus: Avoid These "No-Go Zones" at All Costs

In agency import business, common situations of being detained by the customs include:

• Products without certificates: Just like passengers without passports
• Incomplete labels: "Three-no products" lacking Chinese instructions
• Inconsistent parameters: The actual oxygen permeability is lower than the marked value

Professional advice: My insights from 20 years of experience

As an industry veteran, here are three practical suggestions for consumers:

• Before purchasing: Log in to the Food and Drug Administration website to check the registration certificate number
• When using: Prepare two pairs of glasses for alternate use
• Import Selection: Give priority to short - cycle products from Japan and South Korea

Special Reminder: In These Situations, the Customs Will Directly Return the Goods

Recent "high-risk" scenarios under strict customs inspection:

• Personal overseas shopping of unregistered products
• Cross - border e - commerce platforms selling products without certificates
• Samples disguised as commercial imports

Remember: Choosing imported contact lenses is not like choosing a bag. Its about choosing a guarantee for eye health. From professional optometry to customs compliance, every step deserves your serious attention!