International buyers at the Hong Kong Jewellery Show expect their already strong industry to continue its expanding, especially in European markets

Mr Leung Sik Wah, chairman of the TDC Jewellery Advisory Committee, pointed out that the US, UK and Germany chalked up increases of 25 per cent, 19 per cent and 17 per cent respectively. The number of exhibitors at the show was up by 20 per cent totalling 1,187 exhibitors from 30 regions and countries.

"Now in its 20th year, the Hong Kong Jewellery Show has helped transformed Hong Kong into the jewellery industry's manufacturing, marketing and sourcing centre for the world," Mr Leung said.

An independent survey conducted at the show showed that people in the jewellery business are upbeat about the industry's prospects, despite the spectre of war. But the respondents were more optimistic about the EU market than the American market. Generally, three quarters of those interviewed said they expected the world jewellery industry in 2003 to perform better than or similar to 2002.

Over a dozen countries and organisations set up pavilions at the Jewellery Show. They included Belgium, India, Italy, Israel, the UK, US, the Chinese mainland and the International Colored Gemstone Association (ICA).

More than 30 buying missions from around the world - Australia, Dubai, the US, Spain and Mexico - were also in Hong Kong for sourcing opportunities. About a quarter of the respondents interviewed for the survey showed that buyers usually have more than one supplier, and that Hong Kong and southern China were the "most preferred" sources of supply. 

In addition to providing more room for a greater variety of goods and wider choice of products, this year's fair featured new display areas such as the Watch and Clock Pavilion where close to 50 exhibitors showcased innovative, new-look timepieces.

For more details, see http://www.hkjewellery.com

Related link:
Industry vertical: Hong Kong jewellery, timepiece and optical products http://timepieces.tdctrade.com/