Editor’s Note
The opening of #SAJEX2025 in Jeddah underscores the deepening economic and diplomatic ties between India and Saudi Arabia, with high-level participation from both nations signaling robust collaboration in the gem and jewelry sector.
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia:
The global gem and jewelry exhibition #SAJEX2025 commenced today at the Jeddah Superdome in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant event in bilateral relations between India and Saudi Arabia. The inauguration ceremony was attended by prominent dignitaries including Ambassador Dr. Suhel Khan, Consul General Fahad Al-Suri, and Counselor Manusmriti, alongside the leadership of the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC India) and officials from various Indian and Saudi government departments. Officials from InvestSaudi, GAFT SA, KSAMOFA, and business leaders from the Makkah Chamber, Jeddah Chamber, and Riyadh Chamber also participated, demonstrating strong bilateral ties.
The Indian Embassy in Saudi Arabia stated in a post on X:
Saudi Arabia is India’s 5th largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $42.98 billion in FY 2023-24, reflecting strong economic ties.
India is a major player in the global gem and jewelry market, and SAJEX2025 provides a platform for business networking and exploring opportunities. The event aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which focuses on economic diversification and growth.
The Jeddah exhibition builds on the momentum from last year, when Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal inaugurated the India International Jewelry Show (IIJS) Signature 2024, organized by GJEPC in Mumbai on January 4.
As a platform for the gem and jewelry industry, the Mumbai event showcased India’s potential as a stone and gem supplier, while evolving into a central hub for jewelry.
In his address at that time, Piyush Goyal acknowledged India’s significant role in the gem and jewelry sector and emphasized India’s transformation into a key player in the diamond industry.
Piyush Goyal said:
He praised the industry’s innovative efforts and hard work, honoring everyone from designers and manufacturers to marketers and retailers.
Goyal added:
IIJS Signature 2024, held from January 4 to 7 at the Jio World Convention Centre and from January 5 to 8 at the Bombay Exhibition Centre in Mumbai, was India’s premier jewelry show organized by GJEPC.
As the first design-focused jewelry show of the year, it set high standards, promised exceptional scale, and maintained the grandeur associated with IIJS events. The show was held in its 16th edition, featuring over 1,500 exhibitors and showcasing the industry’s diverse offerings, highlighting its enduring significance.
The event provided a comprehensive platform with over 3,000 stalls. It spanned a vast area, underscoring its scale and importance. IIJS Signature 2024 was not limited to national promotion; it engaged in personal interactions with retailers globally, emphasizing the international significance of the event.
GJEPC, which played a crucial role in organizing IIJS events, worked to promote and support the Indian gem and jewelry industry globally. During the organization of IIJS Signature 2024, it promised to provide a platform for new opportunities, showcasing the industry’s innovation, design, and business acumen.