Social distancing measures came to an end, as the mask mandate was officially lifted today, expediting the recovery of business activities between Hong Kong, Mainland China and the rest of the world.

The 39th Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and the 9th Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), are the first major trade fairs being held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai after the territory returns to normalcy. The twin shows run from today until 5 March.

The opening ceremony of the twin jewellery shows was held this morning with Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, The Hon CHEUK Wing-hing, GBS, JP, as the guest of honour. Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Lawrence Ma, Chairman of the Fairs' Organising Committee, said: "The twin jewellery shows are the first major international trade event since the complete lifting of anti-epidemic measures, projecting a gradual recovery of economy and trade between Hong Kong, the Mainland and the rest of the world. I hope the shows will create more business deals and collaboration opportunities for global exhibitors."

Keen participation from the Mainland and overseas exhibitors

With the global economy moving towards normalcy, both mainland and overseas exhibitors are enthusiastic to participate in this year's shows, with over 2,500 exhibitors from 36 countries and regions. The HKTDC has also organised 100 buying missions from 70 countries and regions. A total of 20 pavilions have been set up - including those from the mainland, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, Turkey, Israel, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Brazil, Colombia and the United States.

Renowned jewellery industry organisations, such as the Asia Pacific Creator Association, International Colored Gemstone Association, Tanzanite Foundation and T-GOLD+METS Pavilion - co-organised by the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association and the Italian Exhibition Group - also return, signalling the confidence of international companies in Hong Kong as a business platform.

Seventeen themed zones gather world-class jewellers

Exhibitors value the first trade fairs after the pandemic and bring a wide range of valuable and unique jewellery items to both shows. This year's Hong Kong International Jewellery Show features 17 themed zones, including the Hall of the Extraordinary, Hall of Fame, Designer Galleria and World of Glamour, which showcases jewellery from local brands. A number of jewellers present high quality and distinct jewellery, including an exquisite jadeite bead necklace (On Tung Company, booth no: GH-C10); a classic elegant Burmese ruby ring (Fai Dee Limited, booth no: GH-C31); and a uniquely-crafted zodaria bracelet, a panther-shaped diamond bracelet in gold (Nico Juliany SL, booth no: GH-G03).

Also featured at the show is the 21st Hong Kong Jewellery Design Competition Open Group award-winning pendant in 18K gold, diamonds, rubies and sapphires (Charente Fine Jewelry, booth no: 1CON-008). Additionally, a Korean exhibitor has brought along a magnificent brooch inspired by the natural bracken plants of Jeju Island (Gina Fine Jewelry Creator, booth no: 1CON-024), highlighting the refined, beautiful wares with sophisticated craftsmanship.

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