BRICS sparkle at largest-ever HK jewellery show

Hong Kong (CNS) -- The 29th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show opened at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on Thursday.

Sponsored by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the five-day event has more than 3,100 exhibitors from 48 countries and regions, a record high number of participants.

Exhibitors reported on the first day that orders from European and American buyers are shrinking, however, replaced by more vigorous consumers from BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa).

The largest spring jewellery show in Asia has set up seven pavilions for the world's most influential jewellery associations, including the Antwerp World Diamond Centre, the Israeli Diamond Industry and the Japan Jewellery Association.

Exhibitors from Italy, Japan, and the Philippines all intend to build their reputation in the alluring mainland market through this platform, according to Benjamin Chau, deputy executive director of the HKTDC.

A buyer from Shanghai told CNS that gold jewellery remains attractive to mainland consumers, yet desire for other items, especially diamonds, is on the rise.

The Hong Kong jewellery industry is benefitting from mainland purchase power, and Chau believes Hong Kong is still competitive in retaining mainland buyers.