The 70th Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair has opened its doors at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), marking a significant event in the global gems and jewellery industry. Organised by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) in collaboration with The Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT), and supported by 16 key public and private organisations, the fair is set to run from 9-13 September 2024. Spanning the entire G and LG levels (Halls 1-8) of the venue, this year's fair promises to be a grand showcase of over 1,100 companies from more than 20 countries, highlighting Thailand's leadership in the gems and jewellery sector.
Presiding over the grand opening, Mr Vuttikrai Leewiraphan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Commerce, highlighted the event’s importance. For over 40 years, the Ministry has consistently organised the Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair, providing a platform for entrepreneurs to connect and negotiate business deals on an international scale. “The 70th edition has received an overwhelming response, with over 1,100 companies from more than 20 countries exhibiting across 2,470 booths. We expect to welcome around 40,000 visitors and generate over 100 million USD in trade value,” said Mr Vuttikrai.
Thailand's gems and jewellery exports are vital to the country's economy, establishing it as a global hub for coloured gemstones and a leader in gem-cutting and enhancement techniques. Mr Vuttikrai noted, “The gems and jewellery industry consistently ranks among the top ten highest-revenue-generating export sectors for Thailand. Despite global economic slowdowns, exports (excluding unwrought gold) grew by 8.40% in 2023, and in the first seven months of 2024 alone, there was a 6.7% increase compared to the same period last year. Bangkok Gems has been a key driver in establishing Thailand as a leading global hub for the gems and jewellery trade.”
Mr Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, Director-General of DITP and main organiser of the event, spoke about the positive reception and future expansion plans: “We invite everyone to experience the grandeur of the 70th Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair. More than 50% of the showcased products are coloured gemstones. Feedback from the previous edition showed a satisfaction rate exceeding 95%, and the fair is regarded as one of the best in the global gem and jewellery industry. Due to growing demand, we plan to expand the exhibition space by 2025 to accommodate over 150 additional booths.”
Mr Sumed Prasongpongchai, Director General of GIT, emphasised that “Bangkok Gems is not only a global trade platform but also a stage for building business partnerships, exchanging knowledge, and enhancing the industry's image through special and parallel events.” Noteworthy zones include The New Faces zone featuring emerging entrepreneurs and designers, the Smart Jewellers by GIT programme, and over 60 entrepreneurs from Chanthaburi province. Other highlights include “The Spirit of Jewellery Making” exhibition, a networking reception, and over 10 industry-related seminars.
Mr Sumed also introduced GIT’s special services, noting, “During the event, GIT will offer international-standard gem testing services with certifications issued within the event. We have expanded our testing area to meet increased demand and are unveiling the innovative gems colour grading cabinet with LED light developed from our research project.”
In 2023, Thailand’s gem and jewellery exports (excluding unwrought gold) reached a value of 8.658 billion USD, growing by 8.40%. In the first seven months of 2024, exports amounted to 5.104 billion USD, a 6.7% increase compared to the same period last year.
The 70th Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair will run from 9 to 13 September 2024, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Halls 1-8, on levels G and LG. For more information, visit www.bkkgems.com or follow facebook.com/Bangkokgemsofficial.
