Hong Kong: The 40th edition of Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong (JGW) wrapped up on a triumphant note this past Sunday, 24 September – setting records as the city’s first event since the pandemic to witness the full resurgence of international participation.
Widely recognised as the largest jewellery fair globally, with 3,417 exhibitors hailing from 44 countries and regions, JGW attracted 53,879 buyers from 142 countries and regions, which was on a par with 2018 figures. Some major Asian markets saw a notable increase in visitor numbers, including Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines.
Attendance from Europe and the Americas were below 2018 numbers. This was partly due to the ongoing recovery of airline capacity that has yet to be fully restored, according to show organiser Informa Markets Jewellery.
“The results of this edition vividly demonstrate the enduring appeal of Hong Kong as the gateway to both China and the rest of the world, while further solidifying JGW’s reputation as the ultimate destination for global jewellery sourcing,” commented David Bondi, Senior Vice President of Informa Markets in Asia. He further highlighted the fair’s exceptional visitor profile, exhibitor selection and innovative “One Fair, Two Venues” concept, which maximised buyer efficiency over the course of an extraordinary week.
Celine Lau, Director of Jewellery Fairs at Informa Markets Jewellery, likewise underscored show specials celebrating JGW’s 40th edition and the 40th anniversary of JNA, Informa’s flagship jewellery trade publication. The fair’s standout features included the Extraordinary 40 (E40) Awards, which recognised 40 industry champions who have made substantial contributions to transforming the jewellery trade. Additionally, JGW presented Master Insights, led by engaging panel discussions headlined by the E40 Award Recipients, and a variety of seminars. Attendees also had the opportunity to participate in the Red Radiance education programme, which displayed exhibits, live gemstone-cutting demonstrations and immersive experiences centred around the 40th anniversary gemstone – the ruby.
“As the industry undergoes rebuilding, the challenges ahead remain significant, emphasising the increased importance of JGW like never before. It is crucial that we seek inspiration, foster connections and forge partnerships. As the meeting point for the global jewellery community, JGW plays a vital role in helping us accomplish these objectives,” Lau said.
JGW reverted to its pre-pandemic format, with two distinct venues dedicated to specific product categories. From 18 to 22 September, the AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE) showcased an extensive array of jewellery materials, including loose diamonds, coloured gemstones and pearls. Meanwhile, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), visitors discovered finished jewellery, innovative packaging solutions, tools and equipment, and the latest advancements in jewellery industry-related technologies from 20 to 24 September.
The fair had an impressive lineup of 40+ group and themed pavilions, including renowned attractions such as the Fine Gem and Design Pavilions, International Premier Pavilion and CORE – a dedicated zone shining the spotlight on Hong Kong’s major jewellery manufacturers. The exhibitor roster represented a worldwide convergence of the industry, with over 62% or 2,133 suppliers originating from overseas. Country and regional pavilions were led by Belgium, Brazil, China, Colombia, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Spain, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Türkiye, Taiwan, Thailand and the US. In addition, various trade associations had a strong presence with their dedicated pavilions, contributing to the event’s vibrancy.
JGW also received hosted buyers from approximately 35 countries and regions, further enhancing the international nature of the fair.
In 2024, JGW will be held from 16 to 20 September at the AWE and from 18 to 22 September at the HKCEC.
