Bangkok Fair Gets a New Look

Not only did the 58th Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair (BGJF) have a new look this past September, but the nation’s biannual trade show is now under new management.

- Cynthia Unninayar

Generating more than $7.2 billion in revenue in 2015, Thailand’s gems and jewellery industry is the country’s third largest export sector after automotive parts and electronics. And, it is expected to increase some 10% this year, according to Chantira Jimreivat Vivatrat, deputy director-general of the nation’s Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), under the ministry of commerce. Given the importance of this industry, the DITP has taken over managing the show from the previous team. “We feel that we needed to make changes in the show,” explains Vivatrat, “and find our own niche in the global gems and jewellery trade show calendar.”

Part of the new look was a special exhibition featuring six themed areas with jewellery created by a new generation of designers: Viva for 60+, elegant gems for seniors; Pet Parade, delightful jewels for pets and pet lovers; Gemtlesmen, jewellery for men; The Moment, special event pieces including bridal; Culture Club, stimulating arts and crafts designs; and Spiritual Power, jewels representing auspicious beliefs, horoscopes and spirituality.