HONG KONG, Jul 29, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The 37th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and 7th HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded today. In addition to trade buyers, the twin shows were also open to jewellery-loving public visitors for the first time this year. The five-day shows attracted more than 13,700 industry buyers and over 17,000 public visitors who came to explore and purchase a wide array of jewellery products. The twin shows also run online until 5 August to enable global jewellers and traders to engage in business talks via video conferencing, with more than 1,200 online meetings between exhibitors and buyers arranged. As of 29 July, the online edition of the shows recorded some 2,500 buyers exploring products and conducting business discussions online.

Recovering purchasing power creates new opportunities

With the pandemic changing the global economy and international travel restrictions disrupting regular business travel, enterprises are looking to conduct cross-border business through both online and physical channels. Benjamin Chau, Acting Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: "An independent survey conducted on-site found that 44% of the interviewed exhibitors and buyers considered business travel restrictions during the pandemic as the biggest current challenge. On a more positive note, 31% and 19% of respondents respectively believed that the recovering purchasing power of customers and business leads driven by e-tailing would be the main source of new business opportunities this year."

Mr Chau continued: "The HKTDC is adopting a strategy that clearly aligns with the survey results. Addressing both exhibitors' needs and market trends, we made a swift decision to open the twin shows to public visitors for the first time. This has enabled exhibitors to reach out to more retail clients and broaden their customer base. Also, the fact that the two shows run in a unique physical and online format for the first time has helped to create more business opportunities for traders."

During the shows, the HKTDC conducted an on-site survey in which more than 800 exhibitors and buyers were interviewed. The survey found that buyers and exhibitors remain cautious regarding the market outlook, with 54% of respondents expecting overall sales to decrease this year and only 29% expected sales to remain unchanged. In terms of sourcing prices and production costs, 45% of respondents said they were under more pressure. Despite this, more than half of them (54%) expected that retail prices will remain unchanged.

Diamond jewellery items were the most popular products purchased at the shows

Regarding the growth prospects for jewellery products in major countries and regions over the next two years, respondents considered that North America (41%), Western Europe (33%) and Hong Kong (31%) were the most promising traditional markets, while Mainland China was considered by 51% as the most promising emerging market. Hong Kong was recognised by interviewed buyers as an ideal sourcing hub, with quality (75%), use of material (73%) and services (71%) being the three most appreciated aspects.

In terms of popular product categories, the survey found that nearly half (49%) of the respondents favoured karat-white gold, followed by karat-rose gold (42%) and karat-yellow gold (38%). Diamonds remained the most popular (54%) among all gemstones.

Half of the respondents expected trendy fashion jewellery to have the greatest market potential. The survey also found that 28% of public visitors interviewed had spent more than HK$10,000 each on-site and that diamond jewellery items were the most popular products (51%) purchased at the shows.

Exhibitors value jewellery shows as effective business platforms

The twin shows were the first two physical trade fairs staged by the HKTDC since the pandemic began, creating business opportunities for exhibitors and buyers alike.

A Hong Kong exhibitor, Just Gold Company Limited, joined the Jewellery Show for the first time this year. Arthur Tang, the company's Managing Director, Greater China, shared that the show was an effective business platform that helped their company enhance its branding and increase market exposure. "We promoted our new designs as well as special collections for our 30th anniversary. A number of buyers approached us to enquire more about our products. We've already concluded some business deals and the response has been encouraging," said Mr Tang.

Another exhibitor, Yvonne Pong, Director, Wing Hang South Sea Pearl Company Limited, considered the Jewellery Show as the perfect place to promote their pearl jewellery collections and drive new business. "Customers love our classic designs, and jewellery with gold-coloured pearls is particularly sought after. The response has been better than expected. We've met some quality buyers, including a number of new customers," she said. "The HKTDC has done an excellent job making the show a success despite the pandemic. I am confident the show will get even better, with more overseas buyers coming to source products once travel restrictions are lifted."

A local buyer, Edmond Chan, Head of Jewelry Asia, Luxeford Hong Kong Limited, was pleased to see the Jewellery Show being staged again. "We specialise in purchasing high-end jewellery and watches. I am here looking for partners and to find suitable products. I've already found an exhibitor to explore cooperation with whose jewellery collection boasts some outstanding designs," he said.

A host of activities were held during the two shows, including seminars on changes that the pandemic and online marketing have brought to the jewellery industry supply chain, a series of expert talks tailor-made to guide the public on the appreciation of rare-colour diamonds and pearl evaluation methods, jewellery smart bidding session, workshop, lucky draws and jewellery parades. These events not only facilitated the exchange of market intelligence among industry players, but also enhanced public knowledge about gemstones and jewellery products.

Physical edition of International Sourcing Show ends concurrently

The physical edition of the HKTDC International Sourcing Show also ended today, the 4-day show attracted over 14,000 buyers to attend or explore products online. To help local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grasp business opportunities, the HKTDC contacted quality buyers through its network of 50 offices worldwide and arranged close to 1,100 business matching meetings during the physical show.

This physical edition of the International Sourcing Show was complemented by an online element, which started in March, enabling traders to stay connected both online and offline and boosting business opportunities during the pandemic.

Fair Websites:
– Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: https://hkjewelleryshow.hktdc.com
– Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show: https://hkdgp.hktdc.com
– International Sourcing Show: https://isshow.hktdc.com
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3x6UrTR

About the HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.

Media Enquiries:
HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Jul 25, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The 37th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and 7th HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and will run until 29 July. The twin shows are the first two physical trade fairs to be staged by the HKTDC since the pandemic began and are being held in a hybrid format for the first time, with both physical and online exhibitions. The online show will run until 5 August to help global jewellers capture business opportunities as the pandemic continues.

The physical fairs have attracted close to 440 exhibitors and are open to jewellery-loving public visitors for the first time. The majority of exhibitors are local companies as travel restrictions are still in effect between Hong Kong and the rest of the world. However, some overseas exhibitors have sent their local representatives to participate in the fairs, representing companies from Germany, Switzerland, the United States, Italy and India. Some of the overseas exhibitors are also joining the online exhibition. In addition to local trade buyers, the HKTDC has mobilised its 50 global offices to invite overseas buyers to take part in the fairs and conduct business deals via video conferencing.

Hong Kong exports of pearls, gemstones and rough diamonds increase by 83.1%

As the global economy begins to recover, and taking into account the relatively low base in the same period in 2020, Hong Kong's exports of fine jewellery registered a sharp increase in the first five months of 2021, climbing 82.3% year-on-year to a total of HK$28.65 billion. For raw materials, the gross export value of pearls, gemstones and rough diamonds climbed 83.1% in the same period this year to HK$57.24 billion. The total export value of fine jewellery is already back to the pre-pandemic level with a positive export outlook for pearls, gemstones and rough diamonds.

There has also been a corresponding rise in confidence in the retail market. The provisional figure for retail sales in the first five months of 2021 is HK$146.31 billion, a rise of 8.9% year-on-year. There was also a sharp increase in the sale of jewellery products, watches and clocks and valuable gifts, climbing 34.2%. The jewellery industry is heavily reliant on the retail sector, which remains hampered by ongoing travel restrictions and compulsory quarantine measures. The full recovery of business and leisure travel is still dependent on the pandemic situation.

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said: "The HKTDC twin jewellery shows provide a one-stop marketing and sourcing platform to showcase the latest and finest jewellery items as well as raw materials, helping Hong Kong to maintain its position as a trading and sourcing hub for this important sector. We are happy to see that the jewellery export and retail markets have been picking up, and we hope our fairs can assist industry players in navigating the current challenges."

He added: "Following the availability of vaccines and the gradual rollout of the global vaccination programme, we have seen some easing in the local pandemic situation with a corresponding improvement in the consumer sentiment. The first payment under the Consumption Voucher Scheme will be made at the beginning of August, and we believe Hong Kong companies will grasp the opportunity presented by our shows to source jewellery of different types and price ranges in anticipation of this business opportunity. Meanwhile, consumers will soon have some extra money in their pockets and can join the shows to look for daily wearable or collectable jewellery items."

World of Glamour showcases wide range of precious jewellery

Different product zones have been set up at the Jewellery Show this year, including the World of Glamour, the highlight zone that has attracted several well-known local jewellery companies to showcase a selection of refined and precious pieces including:

– A Blue Sapphire and Diamond Set from Valerie & Co Limited (Booth 3E-F11) with natural South African diamonds and rare Sri Lankan sapphire that highlight its extraordinary preciousness. This is an extravagant and timeless piece for the collector.

– The Monet collection designed by Sabina Lee of Green G. (Booth 3E-E12) pays due respect to the famous French impressionist painter, Claude Monet. Referencing Monet's unique broken-colour painting technique, the designer has used precious and semi-precious stones of different colours and shades to create the Monet ring and earrings.

In addition, products zones such as Antique & Vintage Jewellery, Fine Jewellery, and Silver and Finished Jewellery highlight different kinds of accessories, such as jewellery made with gemstones, Fei Cui, antique pieces, trendy designs and more. Highlighted pieces include:

– The Sparkling Ocean jewellery set from John Chan Jewellery Limited (Booth 3E-G29) in the Fine Jewellery zone features 14 baroque pearls, 94 emeralds and 735 diamonds. The set is one of a kind, showcasing a gorgeous and eye-catching glamour.

– The Kingfisher Brooch presented by YUKINGFISHERART (Booth 3E-H11) in the Antique & Vintage Jewellery zone demonstrates traditional Chinese handicraft. This gorgeous and elegant piece has a bright shine and vibrant colours that will never fade.

Valuable jewellery raw materials on display

The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show features different product zones arranged according to raw stone categories to make it easier for buyers to find what they need. The Hall of Fine Diamonds showcases prime quality diamonds of different shapes, cuts, grades and rare colours. The Treasures of Nature zone displays a wide array of dazzling coloured stones and semi-precious gems from various regions, while the Treasures of the Ocean zone houses some rare fine pearls. An impressively large number of special exhibits are on display, including:

– A Paraiba Tourmaline from RMC Gems Limited (Booth 3G-C02) features a delicate briolette cut where the refraction highlights the quality of the gem. The stone is a copper-bearing tourmaline with an extraordinary neon blue colour.

– The Mix Shape Light Yellow Diamond Ring presented by Dynamic International (Booth 3F-F04) uses 18K white and yellow gold together with a pear-shape rose-cut diamond to create an elegant yet unique style.

– Bright Town Gems Jewellery Co (Booth 3G-F02) showcases a series of 925 Silver Pendants with different precious stones such as black agate, prehnite, smoky quartz and rose quartz.

Expert sharing sessions broaden horizons of industry players

A host of seminars are being held during the twin shows, helping to boost the knowledge and broaden the horizons of jewellery industry players. The seminar "What's Next for Jewellery Industry Supply Chains" will be hosted by a representative from De Beers tomorrow (26 July); representatives from Chow Tai Fook will talk about digital marketing on Tuesday (27 July); and a speaker from the Gemmological Association of Hong Kong (GAHK) will talk about the internationalisation and testing standards for Fei Cui.

Since the twin fairs are open to the public for the first time, there are also expert talks aimed specifically at jewellery-loving visitors. They include a representative from internationally renowned jewellery college L'ECOLE sharing on the art and science of rubies; representatives from the Diamond Federation of Hong Kong and Jade Manufacturers Association discussing how to appreciate rare-colour diamonds; and a representative from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) introducing its pearl evaluation methods. In addition, visitors can learn how to make rose twist rings at the "Rosy Twist – Handmade Rose Ring Tutorial".

Daily lucky draws offer quality prizes

The Jewellery Smart Bidding session is being held today (25 July) with visitors invited to bid for their favourite jewellery items among 20 pieces starting at around 10% of the original prices. Various jewellery parades and lucky draws are also being held throughout the fairs. Lucky draw prizes include an 18K white gold pendant with a natural ruby and diamonds, an Italian 925 Sliver 18K rose gold vermeil simple-cuff bangle, Fei Cui ornaments, and more.

Physical edition of International Sourcing Show runs concurrently

The physical edition of the HKTDC International Sourcing Show begins tomorrow and runs for four consecutive days (26 to 29 July) in parallel with the twin jewellery shows at the HKCEC. The International Sourcing Show will take the form of a display showcase featuring thousands of the latest products. Themed "Your Source of Inspirations", the event will highlight a broad range of quality lifestyle products and solutions under four themed categories:

– Smart Home features household and textiles items for the bathroom, bedroom, dining room, kitchen, living room, home workspace and garden

– Smart Play showcases kids' products, including dolls and figurines, vehicle toys, interactive and educational games, as well as baby care and nursery products, accessories, strollers and gear

– Smart Tech displays electronic products, medical and healthcare products, and lighting solutions

– Smart Style highlights a range of garments, fashion accessories and gift ideas, as well as printing and packaging solutions

Moreover, the Hong Kong Exporters' Association, Guizhou Provincial Department of Commerce from Mainland China, Korean Trade-Investment Promotion Agency as well as the Busan Chamber of Commerce and Industry from Korea have organised group pavilions presenting a quality selection of offerings to buyers.

Websites
– Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: http://hkjewelleryshow.hktdc.com/
– Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show: http://hkdgp.hktdc.com/
– International Sourcing Show: http://isshow.hktdc.com/
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3zwBc7V

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels.

Media enquiries
HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

HONG KONG, Jul 8, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – The 37th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and seventh HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), will run from 25 to 29 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). This is the first time for the shows to be held in a hybrid format with both a physical exhibition and an online business matching service. The latter will run until 5 August, allowing global jewellers to make business deals through online video conferences. The physical fairs welcome industry buyers and, for the first time, members of the public with a passion for fine jewellery.

Fine jewellery exports climb 82.3% in first five months of 2021

The twin shows, the first two physical trade fairs to be staged by the HKTDC since the start of the pandemic, have attracted more than 400 exhibitors, the majority of which are local companies as travel restrictions are still in effect between Hong Kong and the rest of the world. However, some overseas exhibitors are sending their local representatives to participate in the fairs, representing companies from Germany, Switzerland, the United States, Italy and India.

Speaking at a press conference to introduce the twin shows, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said: "The pandemic situation has remained stable in Hong Kong while quarantine and immigration control measures continue to be in place globally. I believe the physical and online hybrid format will become the new trend for trade fairs. This HKTDC-organised one-stop exhibition and sourcing platform is showcasing a huge range of quality jewellery to suit the needs of buyers from around the world, helping exhibitors to build connections and make more business deals."

In the more than one year since the pandemic first hit, the impact on the jewellery sector has been significant. However, global demand has begun to rise this year, leading to a 29.4% increase in exports for the first five months of 2021. This compares to a low base in the same period in 2020 but it is clear that the export market is showing signs of recovery. Hong Kong's exports of fine jewellery registered a sharp increase of 82.3% year-on-year to HK$28.65 billion for the period from January to May this year. Exports to the largest market, Mainland China, skyrocketed nearly 230% while Asia regions including Macao, Taiwan and Malaysia also showed a significant increase. For raw materials, the gross export value of pearls, gemstones and rough diamonds climbed 83.1% in the same period this year.

The figures clearly show that the pandemic pressure on the jewellery sector is easing. HKTDC Jewellery Advisory Committee Chairman Winston Chow said at the press conference that local companies may wish to take a more diverse marketing approach in the long run amid continuing global economic uncertainty. In addition to tapping into emerging markets, companies should explore online sales channels and sourcing platforms or participate in virtual fairs in order to capture new business opportunities. Meanwhile, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups need to seize opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as well as exploring markets in the mainland.

Wide variety of precious jewellery and modern pieces

Different product zones are being set up at the twin shows this year, including the World of Glamour at the Jewellery Show that has attracted several well-known jewellery companies to showcase a selection of refined and precious pieces. Numerous modern design pieces will be available at the fair including:

– A magnificent Jadeite and Diamond Pendant Necklace from On Tung Company (Booth 3E-A14).
– The g monogram collection from Just Gold (Booth 3E-B02) highlights the company's intricate yet classic designs with fine lines and a delicate hollowed-out pattern. This collection marks a new direction for this classic brand.
– The Sapphire Necklace from Legrand Jewellery (Booth 3E-C02) comprises an oval-shape sapphire necklace with diamonds set on 18K white gold. The waterfall design adds a sense of dynamism to this precious piece.
– The Amethyst, Diamond & Gem-set Puppet pendant from Young's Creation Co Ltd (Booth 3E-D09) was inspired by famous fairytale character Pinocchio.

In addition, products zones such as Fine Jewellery, Antique & Vintage Jewellery and Silver and Finished Jewellery highlight different kinds of accessories from high-end pieces to casualwear items, including jewellery made with rubies, Fei Cui, antique pieces, trendy designs and more.

The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show showcases a fine assortment of raw materials including diamonds, gems and pearls. Different zones include the Hall of Fine Diamonds, which showcases prime quality diamonds of different shapes, cuts, grades and rare colours. The Treasures of Nature zone displays various glittering precious gemstones, semi-precious gems and other natural raw materials, while the Treasures of the Ocean zone houses the highest-quality pearls from Tahiti, the South Seas and other pearl-producing areas around the world.

An impressively large number of special exhibits will be on display:

– RMC Gems Limited (Booth 3G-C02) will showcase a fine-cut Paraiba Tourmaline with a water-drop shape whose reflection highlights the condition of the gem. The stone has an extraordinary neon blue colour.
– CK Crystal Limited (Booth 3G-F18) will feature a meteorite ring that includes genuine pieces of meteorite from outer space and displays a unique Widmanstatten pattern.
– SM Gems Limited (Booth 3G-E27) will display a Pink Morganite, that highlights the beauty of nature. This is a very durable and dazzling gemstone belonging to the Beryl family.

Seminars improve professional knowledge, Day 1 smart bidding adds excitement

A host of seminars will be held during the twin shows including one hosted by a representative from De Beers, who will share how the jewellery industry supply chain has changed amid the pandemic. Representatives from Chow Tai Fook will share about online marketing, while speakers from the Gemmological Association of Hong Kong (GAHK) will talk about the internationalisation and testing standards for Fei Cui. There will also be expert talks to meet the needs of the jewellery-loving public, including a representative from the internationally renowned jewellery college L'ECOLE sharing on the art and science of rubies. Representatives from the Diamond Federation of Hong Kong and Jade Manufacturers Association will talk on how to appreciate rare-colour stones, while a representative from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will introduce the its pearl evaluation methods.

In addition, the Jewellery Smart Bidding session will be held on the first day of the Jewellery Show (25 July) with visitors invited to bid for their favourite jewellery items starting at low prices – around 10% of original prices. Various jewellery parades and lucky draws will also be held throughout the fairs. Lucky draw prizes include an 18K white gold pendant with a natural ruby and diamonds, an Italian 18K rose gold vermeil simple-cuff bangle, hotel dining coupons, and more.

On display at the Jewellery Show, in Hall 3E Concourse, will be winning entries from the 22nd Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition, jointly organised by the HKTDC and four major jewellery associations in Hong Kong. The theme for this year's competition was "Light, Shadow", with some 150 entries divided into the Open Group and Student Group.

Physical edition of International Sourcing Show runs concurrently

The physical edition of the hybrid HKTDC International Sourcing Show will be held from 26 to 29 July, running in parallel with the twin jewellery shows. The International Sourcing Show will take the form of a display showcase featuring thousands of the latest products. Themed "Your Source of Inspirations", the event will highlight a broad range of quality lifestyle products and solutions under four main categories:

– Smart Home: Featuring an extensive selection of household items including indoor furnishings and home textiles.
– Smart Play: Showcasing a range of kids' products including dolls and figurines, car toys, interactive toys and educational games. Buyers can also source baby care and nursery products, gear and accessories, including strollers.
– Smart Style: Highlighting an eclectic mix of garments, fashion accessories, fashion tech and fabrics. Also featured are gifts and premiums for different budgets including handicrafts, beauty and healthcare products, travel and outdoor equipment, environmental protection and festive items, as well as printing and packaging solutions.
– Smart Tech: Displaying a wide variety of tech products, including electronics, medical and healthcare and lighting products, as well as gifts, fashion and household items employing the latest technologies.

Websites
– HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: http://hkjewelleryshow.hktdc.com/
– HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show: http://hkdgp.hktdc.com/
– HKTDC International Sourcing Show: http://isshow.hktdc.com/
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3yNqU39

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly SMEs, in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels.

Media enquiries
HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org

Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com