In remarks made exclusively to Arabian Watches & Jewellery (AWJ) Magazine on the sidelines of the recently concluded 42nd Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair (BGJF), Khun Vichai Assarasakorn, President, Thai Gems & Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA), affirmed that the Middle East was among the top four new emerging markets for the Thai gems & jewellery industry in the aftermath of declining sales to the USA, the industry’s biggest export market. “The Middle East is among the key global markets the industry is now turning its attention to boost exports with exports doubling each year,” asserted Khun Vichai. “New markets including the Middle East, China, India and Russia now contribute 15.0 % of export revenue,” added Khun Vichai.
“The Middle East will witness continued interest and feature prominently on our radar screens for a long time to come,” continued Khun Vichai. “In July 2008 we reached an MOU—Memorandum of Understanding with the Dubai Multi-Commodities Exchange (DMCC). Next month, October 2008, I will lead a top-level delegation to re-visit DMCC to foster closer business links and reinforce our participation in the 25th MidEast Watch & Jewellery Show to be held in the Sharjah Expo Centre,” he affirmed.
The TGJTA is the principal sponsor of the bi-annual (twice yearly), long running Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair (BGJF) series.