Gem Authority organises Pavilion at Bangkok Fair

The National Gem and Jewellery Authority (NGJA), organised the 'Sri Lanka Pavilion' for the first time at the Bangkok Gems and Jewellery Fair held from February 22 to 27, 2005 at the Impact Exhibition and Convention Center, Thailand.

Twelve companies participated at the Sri Lanka Pavilion at this fair which is established as the Asia's Premier World Event. This even which was organised for the 35th time was organised by the Department of Export Promotions and the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association.

This year the fair was attended by more than 30,000 VIPs and Trade Buyers from 50 countries and more than 1,250 exhibitors from 30 countries had their merchandise on display.

The Sri Lanka Pavilion was opened by the Ambassador for Sri Lanka in Thailand J. D. A. Wijewardane.

In terms of value, Thailand is the third largest importer of Sri Lankan gems. In the year 2004, Sri Lanka has exported Rs. 1059 million worth of gems to Thailand which amounts to 12% of our total gem exports in that year.

Since the 'Blue Sapphire' was declared as the 'National Gemstone of Sri Lanka' in 2003, our efforts were mainly focused to promote Sri Lanka 'as the foremost production center for Sapphire and Sapphire Jewellery'.

Chairman, National Gem and Jewellery Authority, Asoka Jayawardene, Director - Sydney Jayasinghe and Senior Manager, Export and Export Promotion, Ajith Perera officiated at the National Pavilion.