The global lighting market is currently enjoying a period of relative stability, according to an HKTDC survey of 444 exhibitors and buyers conducted onsite during the Spring edition of the 2025 HKTDC Smart Lighting Expo and Hong Kong International Lighting Fair this April.
How Bright is the Outlook of the Lighting Industry for the Year Ahead?
Overall, the survey found that across the lighting industry, most respondents were broadly positive with regard to future market prospects and expected overall sales levels to rise over the next 2 years. More specifically, over the short‑term (6‑12 months), 39% expected sales growth, while 52% foresaw continued growth over the medium term (12‑24 months).
Emerging Economies Drive Lighting Market Expansion
In terms of the outlook for individual markets, optimism was particularly high in the case of many of the emerging economies. When asked to rate markets on a scale from 1 (very unpromising) to 5 (very promising), respondents saw Central Asia (4.0) as the most likely to grow over the next 2 years, followed jointly by Mainland China and India (3.9 for both markets).
Which Lighting Product Categories Will Be the Most Promising?
When asked which lighting product segment(s) would be best-selling, 37% of respondents singled out LED lighting as having the highest growth potential, followed by residential lighting (25%) and commercial lighting (24%).
How Will the Lighting Trade Ecosystem Evolve?
The survey also indicated that online sales channels now play a significant role in the lighting industry, with 57% of respondents actively engaged in online sales activity (9% online‑only and 49% utilising both online and offline channels). This is in line with the global trend of Online-Offline Sales Integration.
Summary
The survey suggests that LED, residential, and commercial lighting categories are set for expanded growth in the near future.
E-commerce will continue to play a pivotal role in lighting trade, enabling greater reach and flexibility for businesses.
The findings, based on data from April 2025, support a generally bright outlook for the lighting industry, especially in emerging markets and key product segments such as LED lighting.
Explore Full Survey Findings
Access detailed insights, including respondent profiles, via:
Generally Bright: Lighting Industry Prospects for the Year Ahead
E-commerce continues to rise as shown in the above survey findings – source quality and safe lights, among other electronic products, on our e-Marketplace now:
