The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair, taking place from September 6-10, 2023, is a “must-attend” event showcasing superb Thai craftsmanship skills handed down over generations. More than 1,000 exhibitors and over 2,400 booths will be offering goods to an expected turnout of in excess of 15,000 visitors from around the world, according to key event organisers Mr. Phusit Ratanakul Sereroengrit, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), and Mr. Sumed Prasongpongchai, Director of the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT), in an interview with Jewellery Outlook Editor David Brough.
What variety of products will be on show at the September edition of the Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair?
The Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair stands out as one of the world’s most comprehensive gems and jewellery trade fairs, which has an extensive collection of gemstones since Thai craftspeople are skilled at gemstone cutting and enhancement. In addition to gemstones, visitors can explore a diverse range of silver and gold jewellery, fine jewellery, fashion jewellery, and costume jewellery, as well as discover the latest trends in display & packaging, machinery, equipment, and tools related to the industry. This year, the fair will feature more than 1,000 exhibitors in 2,400 booths. The positive feedback from our exhibitors clearly highlights the fair’s position as the world’s gems and jewellery manufacturing and trading hub.
Why is the show a “must-attend” event for buyers?
The 68th edition of the Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair (BGJF) is a “must-attend” international trade event renowned for its long-standing legacy in the gems and jewellery industry. Jointly organized by the Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) and the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) or GIT, the upcoming fair will bring together an extensive range of offerings in a brand-new venue, the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), at the heart of Bangkok.
Strong alliance between state-backed show organisers DITP and GIT
This year, over 1,000 exhibitors and more than 2,400 booths, all of which are our trade partners’ booths in Thailand and abroad will be taking part in this fair. They include leading gems and jewelry brands such as Beauty Gems, Pranda Jewelry, Der Mond, JEWEL DÉCOR, Mahallati and Taevika Jewelry, who will showcase the latest trends in fashion. The trade show is set to attract a diverse crowd of importers, buyers, agents, and traders, with an estimated more than 15,000 visitors from around the world.
This vibrant gathering will provide international buyers with opportunities to touch and feel the products, especially the colored stones elaborated by Thai artisans which are unique and exclusive to this event.
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To facilitate business connections, the fair will provide business matching services, enabling international buyers to establish valuable connections with suppliers not only in Thailand, but also from other parts of the world.
Beyond the trade aspect, attending BGJF offers a chance to rediscover the renowned Thai hospitality and explore the captivating attractions that make Thailand a global destination.
What will be the special features of the trade event, eg seminars, designer showcase? How will the show be different from previous editions?
In celebration of our 40th anniversary, we have made the exciting decision to relocate the fair to QSNCC, offering visitors a fresh and unique experience.
The fair highlights of the 68th edition will include the Networking Reception, a special platform where key figures in the gems and jewellery industry can expand their business networks in a delightful atmosphere accompanied by delectable food and drinks. It offers an ideal setting for professionals to mingle, establish connections, and foster collaborations.
Visitors can also look forward to intriguing exhibitions and showcases, including “NEW FACES ”, which put the spotlight on emerging Thai entrepreneurs who are making their debuts in the industry. As newcomers to the fair, these exhibitors bring fresh ideas and innovative designs that are sure to captivate visitors. The “JEWELLERS’” showcase will feature collections from young Thai designers who have participated in the Designers’ Room and Talent Thai projects. These designers will present their uniquely-designed and innovative jewellery pieces tailored for the global market.
To further enrich the experience, the fair will host talks and seminars curated by DITP and GIT. These educational sessions will provide valuable insights and knowledge within the industry, creating an engaging environment for visitors.
What are the strengths of Thailand in the gemstone and jewellery industry?
Thailand has firmly established itself as a global hub for gems and jewellery manufacturing and trading. The country boasts a comprehensive supply chain, spanning from upstream to downstream, which has attracted renowned global brands and buyers seeking to source and manufacture their jewellery products here. One of Thailand’s notable strengths lies in its unparalleled expertise in gemstone treating, a skill that has been passed down through the generations. The gemstones treated by Thai artisans are often described as having a natural ‘life’ within them, a level of excellence that machines cannot replicate. The BGJF provides the perfect platform to witness and experience these exceptional gemstones firsthand.
What trends are you seeing in Thai gemstone and jewellery exports?
Thailand continues to be a major exporter of gold, silver, and platinum jewellery, as well as colored gemstones, reaffirming its position in the global market. Despite the challenges posed by the global economic crisis, Thailand’s gems and jewellery industry has shown resilience. In fact, from January to April 2023, Thailand’s exports have performed well in key markets such as Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, and Singapore. With the upcoming 68th BGJF in September, we are confident that this event will play a significant role in the future, boosting Thailand’s gem and jewellery exports. It is anticipated that with this fair’s influence and reach, Thailand’s exports in this sector will experience a remarkable growth of 10 percent this year.
How will Thai expertise in craftsmanship be showcased at the fair?
To commemorate the 40th anniversary of the fair, we are thrilled to present a special exhibition that pays tribute to Thailand’s illustrious history as a global manufacturing and trading hub for gems and jewellery. This exhibition will highlight many facets of Thailand’s rich heritage in the industry offering the buyers and visitors a captivating time.
Within this exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to marvel at the remarkable Thai craftsmanship that has long been revered worldwide. Talented Thai exhibitors will proudly display their signature collections, serving as a testament to their exceptional artistry and creative prowess. Visitors will be treated to a diverse array of breathtaking jewelry pieces, each reflecting the unique cultural influences and exquisite techniques that have made Thai craftsmanship truly renowned.
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