(Right) InvestHK's Simon Galpin being briefed by the CEO of IGI Hong Kong, Marc Brauner, on key things to look out for when identifying quality gemstones

CEO of IGI Hong Kong Marc Brauner said Hong Kong is a strategic location that cannot be missed on the world map. 

"The absence of an internationally recognised laboratory on the Hong Kong soil was apparently not acceptable any longer to the local trade, thus we responded to their needs. Furthermore, we have established a worldwide network of laboratories in eight major cities," said Mr Brauner.

Vibrant and creative city

"Hong Kong is a tax-friendly city. Its multi-dimensional, vibrant and creative elements are conducive to foreign businesses establishing their overseas presence here. Hong Kong is also the best place to test something new, since people here are open-minded about new products and services," he added.

He said with Hong Kong's high living standard and the influx of Mainland travelers, the jewellery business in Hong Kong is flourishing. "This favourable situation has created additional demand for internationally recognised services of quality certification for gemstones and jewellery."

Demand for IGI Hong Kong's services to date has exceeded initial expectations since their launch last November. The existing operation will be enlarged, followed by plans to access the Mainland in due course.

Cepa gives competitive edge

"Cepa (Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement) has given our Hong Kong operation a competitive edge. Fine jewellery made in Hong Kong now enjoys duty-free access to the mainland market. It offers a big incentive for jewellery traders to engage value-added services here so as to qualify for Cepa's rules of origin. Hence, Cepa serves as a catalyst to our business development in Hong Kong," said Mr Brauner.

Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong Simon Galpin said being the luxury retail capital of Asia, Hong Kong is a natural shopper's paradise. "While there is a strong cluster of jewellery industry players in Hong Kong, IGI's presence here will further enhance our position as the regional hub for luxury goods and professional services."
 
IGI Hong Kong provides diamond and gemstone identification, certification and grading reports for diamond traders, jewellery manufacturers, retailers and consumers. Founded in Belgium in 1975, IGI has over 450 staff serving jewellery industry across the globe. Its laboratories are located in Antwerp, New York, Toronto, Los Angeles, Bangkok, Mumbai, Tokyo, Dubai and Hong Kong.

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