Thailand's gem and jewelry industry has posted record export growth in the first half of 2025, driven by skilled craftsmanship, strategic free trade agreements, and rising global demand for silver and gold jewelry. For overseas buyers, this signals a reliable sourcing destination with strong compliance standards and expanding trade platforms like the Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair.
Record export performance
From January to June 2025, Thailand's exports of gems and jewelry, including unprocessed gold, reached US$14.02 billion, an 85.25% increase year-on-year. Excluding unprocessed gold, the value stood at US$7.40 billion, up 62.74%. Unprocessed gold exports alone surged 119.22% to US$6.61 billion. The top five export markets are India, Hong Kong, the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
Supply-chain impact
Thailand relies heavily on imported rough gemstones from Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia, and other sources, but its competitive edge lies in skilled gem polishers and jewelry makers. Many international jewelry companies establish production facilities in the country to leverage this craftsmanship. However, a shortage of domestic rough gemstones remains a challenge, pushing the industry to seek raw materials abroad.
Compliance and logistics signals
Major international buyers increasingly require compliance with Responsible Jewelry Council (RJC) standards. Thailand's strategic location, modern infrastructure, and efficient transport networks support seamless connectivity with Southeast Asian and global markets. Free trade agreements with Australia, New Zealand, India, China, and ASEAN nations further reduce tariffs and facilitate trade.
What buyers should watch
The Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF), organized by DITP and GIT, remains a key trade platform for sourcing gemstones, fine jewelry, silver, gold, diamonds, pearls, lab-grown diamonds, costume jewelry, and packaging. The Thai government's 4S Strategy focuses on sourcing facilitation, workforce upskilling, strategic marketing, and proactive export promotion to target markets including the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia, and ASEAN.
China sourcing context
While Thailand is a distinct sourcing hub, its reliance on imported raw materials and growing emphasis on RJC compliance mirrors trends seen in China's jewelry supply chain. Overseas buyers comparing sourcing options should note Thailand's strength in artisan craftsmanship and its active trade show ecosystem, which complements China's scale in OEM/ODM production.
Source: Read the original report | Published: September 11, 2025