From Currency to Pharma: IOTA Expands Global Anti-Counterfeiting Dialogue

The International Optical Technologies Association (IOTA) continues to strengthen its international engagement programme across the sectors its members serve in 2026. The association recently led a specialist workshop at the Banknote Conference 2026 in Washington DC, US.

Hosted by IOTA Chairman Dr Mark Deakes, the session titled ‘Past, Present & Future: The Evolution of Security Banknote OVDs’ examined the development of optical security features, from early holographic applications to today’s advanced micro- and nano-structured technologies.

The workshop addressed developments in materials, manufacturing techniques, and integration methods used in modern banknote security. Discussions also focused on future trends shaping next-generation currency protection, including sophisticated optical effects and hybrid physical-digital authentication technologies.

Following its engagement in the US, IOTA will next participate in the Security Document Summit in Beijing, China, from 26–28 May 2026. The event is expected to bring together government authorities, secure document issuers, and technology providers from across the global identification industry.