Attendance at the Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and its sister show for loose stones and pearls, the Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, were up 2 percent over 2014. 

The two shows had more than 76,000 buyers—30,000 at the Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show and 46,000 at the Jewellery Show. The buyers hailed from 140 countries and regions. 

Exhibitors were also up. The two shows had 4,360 exhibitors from 52 countries and regions.

“Despite the global economic challenge, the two shows recorded a slight increase in buyer attendance. It is a very encouraging result. Attendance from some traditional markets even recorded double-digit percentage growth, such as the U.S., Italy, the U.K., and Japan. Attendance from certain emerging markets such as Thailand, Israel, and South Africa also recorded significant growth, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a leading jewellery sourcing hub,” said Benjamin Chau, Hong Kong Trade Development Council deputy executive director.

The HKTDC commissioned an onsite survey during the shows, enlisting an independent agency to interview more than 1,200 buyers and exhibitors about their experiences and market prospects. Among the findings: 80 percent of buyers expect steady or increased sales in 2015, and 60 percent expect retail prices to remain steady. 

JCK