Editor’s Note
The recent Jewellery & Gem WORLD fair in Hong Kong demonstrated remarkable resilience and global appeal, with strong attendance and participation from thousands of exhibitors worldwide. This success underscores the industry’s capacity to thrive and plan confidently for the future, even amid broader economic headwinds.
The latest edition of Jewellery & Gem WORLD (JGW) in Hong Kong drew impressive global participation, marking a remarkable surge in attendance despite challenging adverse economic conditions.
This year’s fair featured more than 3,000 exhibitors from more than 44 countries, spread across 40 themed pavilions. The show opened on 15 September at Asia World-Expo (AWE). It continued until 21 September at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), once again reaffirming its position as one of the most important trade events in the international jewellery calendar.
Event organiser Informa Markets reported that more than 55,000 visitors from more than 140 countries attended JGW 2025. This represents a 10 per cent increase from the previous year. The figure is particularly notable given ongoing concerns surrounding tariffs, inflation, and cost-of-living pressures across key markets.
— John Glajz, Glajz
According to Informa Markets, around 70 per cent of buyers travelled from outside Hong Kong, with notable growth in attendance from emerging markets such as Australasia, Africa, and the Middle East. Celine Lau, director of jewellery fairs at Informa Markets, said the results reflect both resilience and adaptability within the trade.
“Ultimately, the September Fair continues to be an indispensable fixture in the industry calendar – a definitive destination where buyers not only secure their Christmas and New Year inventory but also thoughtfully map out their purchasing plans for the year ahead, mindful of ongoing market challenges.”
David Bondi, senior vice president of Informa Markets, underscored the event’s enduring relevance to the global industry.
Among this year’s special features was Sublime Shine: Metal Innovations in the Art of Jewellery, an interactive exhibition exploring new approaches to gold, platinum, and silver craftsmanship.
Supported by the World Gold Council and the Platinum Guild International, the exhibit encouraged visitors to experience cutting-edge techniques and technologies shaping the future of fine jewellery. Lau noted that exhibitors were responding strategically to evolving market dynamics.
“We are seeing a blend of necessity and measured confidence. Feedback from exhibitors suggests some buyers participated primarily to place orders for immediate delivery, sustain relationships and collect market intelligence while waiting for greater clarity on international trade policies that could significantly impact pricing structures.”
She further added that expanding into stable and emerging regions remains a key priority for the fair.
— William Gant, LJ West
A significant highlight of the week was the 2025 Conference hosted by the ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA). The event underscored the long-standing partnership between AGJA and the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA), drawing a strong turnout of international delegates, thought leaders, and innovators.
Another significant moment came with the Sustainability Awards 2025, presented by the Jewellery World Awards.
