The 42nd Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the 12th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show concluded successfully, attracting approximately 80,000 buyers from 150 countries and regions, according to the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC). The twin shows, held under the "Two Shows, Two Venues" format, featured about 4,000 exhibitors from more than 40 countries and regions. Notably, buyer attendance from the Philippines, Korea, Australia, and Switzerland recorded significant growth, reinforcing the international standing of the events.
Jenny Koo, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, highlighted that over 30 industry seminars and events were held, keeping professionals abreast of market trends. The shows also debuted three new pavilions: the Hard Pure Gold Pavilion, the Zhushan Turquoise Pavilion, and the Hong Kong Watch Manufacturers Association Pavilion, each showcasing unique craftsmanship.
An on-site survey of 1,509 exhibitors and buyers revealed cautious optimism about the economic outlook. Among respondents, 44.3% expected overall sales to increase over the next one to two years, while 49% anticipated stable sales. Markets viewed as having strong growth potential included Korea (73.2%), ASEAN (71.8%), and the Chinese Mainland (68.5%). In terms of development potential, respondents planned to explore Europe (20.8%), ASEAN (16.8%), and the Chinese Mainland (15.3%).
The survey also identified product trends: trendy fashion jewellery (57.3%), precious jewellery (35.1%), and designer jewellery (21.1%) were seen as having the strongest growth potential. Karat yellow gold (40.1%) and diamonds (28.8%) were the most popular metal and gemstone, respectively.
The Hard Pure Gold Pavilion, led by the World Gold Council, proved a major highlight, helping Chinese mainland manufacturers connect with international buyers. Roland Wang, Regional CEO, noted strong orders and a focus on Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and India. Exhibitor YueHao Jewellery from Shenzhen reported establishing connections with Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand, while another mainland exhibitor plans to set up a Hong Kong office for global expansion.
Sales exceeded expectations for many exhibitors. Korean exhibitor Soyou connected with buyers from the Chinese Mainland, Africa, and the UK, projecting 30% sales growth. Hong Kong-based SimStar Asia Limited secured multi-million-dollar orders from Europe and the US, with robust demand for high-clarity white diamonds. The Hall of Fame grew by over 40%, with Turkish exhibitor Zen Diamond attracting interest from the UK and US on the first day.
Designer jewellery gained traction, with over 50 designer exhibitors, including 10 Korean debutants. A seminar by Trendvision Jewellery + Forecasting explored personalization trends for younger consumers. Three design competitions were held, including the inaugural International Fei Cui Jewellery Design Competition, with winning pieces on display.
Uzbekistan made its debut at the shows, with Fonon Jewelry House showcasing Central Asian-influenced gold pieces. Alisher Romanov, Head of Foreign Economic Affairs, reported connections with buyers from the Chinese Mainland, Malaysia, and the Philippines, expecting sales of approximately USD 50 million. Another Uzbek exhibitor secured a USD 35 million order from a Hong Kong buyer. The Uzbekistan delegation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the HKTDC and the Hong Kong Jewellery Manufacturers' Association to promote bilateral trade.
Buyers sought diverse offerings. Turkish buyer Kasapoglu Jewellery allocated over USD 900,000 for loose diamonds, while US-based David Abraham & Co discovered services from certification to repolishing. China National Gold Group sourced turquoise and fine jewellery with a total budget of USD 200,000. Latin American buyer Golden Silver Z.L S.A. confirmed silver jewellery orders exceeding USD 1.9 million.
To address geopolitical challenges, the HKTDC provided support measures, including promotional material placement and flight rescheduling. The EXHIBITION+ hybrid format enabled online business matching via the HKTDC Marketplace App, facilitating over 100 sessions for affected buyers. E-commerce partnerships with Taobao Tmall and, for the first time, Douyin generated over 35 million online impressions and sales exceeding USD 20 million. A Korean influencer sourced nearly USD 700,000 worth of products.
