Key points
- The fair, which ran from September 9 to 13, 2025, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, was said to have delivered its highest-ever trade value, representing a 26 percent increase from the last edition and surpassing targets by 34 percent.
- The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) has stunned many in the industry with its announcement that the 72nd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair generated US$147.
- The Ethos of Thai Craftsmanship” showcase and the Thailand Gold Forum organized with the World Gold Council, added prestige and cultural weight to the fair.
Bangkok Gems News: DITP Claims Record Figures
The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) has stunned many in the industry with its announcement that the 72nd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair generated US$147.4 million in trade. The fair, which ran from September 9 to 13, 2025, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, was said to have delivered its highest-ever trade value, representing a 26 percent increase from the last edition and surpassing targets by 34 percent. According to DITP, the five-day event drew 46,129 trade visitors, with 61 percent coming from overseas markets, primarily India, Myanmar, China, Sri Lanka, and Japan. This Bangkok Gems News report notes that organizers framed the event as proof of Thailand’s enduring role as a global hub for gems and jewelry.
DITP’s bold claim of US$147.4 million in trade at the 72nd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair has left many exhibitors questioning the figures
Image Credit: DITP
Highlights from the Event
The fair hosted 1,106 exhibitors spread across 2,628 booths that filled all eight halls of the convention center. DITP highlighted that colored gemstones were the top-performing segment, accounting for more than a third of total sales. Other high-demand categories included silver jewelry, fine jewelry, diamonds, and equipment for production and design. The Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand supported the narrative of success, pointing to increased international recognition and satisfaction among certain exhibitors. Additional programming, such as the “Gilded Souls: The Ethos of Thai Craftsmanship” showcase and the Thailand Gold Forum organized with the World Gold Council, added prestige and cultural weight to the fair.
Confusion Among Exhibitors
Despite the official announcements, not everyone agreed with the glowing assessment. Several exhibitors expressed confusion and skepticism, as some reported that they had not experienced any surge in orders. Some complained that while the halls were filled with visitors, many were “lookers rather than buyers.” This disconnect between the DITP’s figures and exhibitor feedback has sparked calls for greater transparency. Industry voices are now urging DITP to release detailed breakdowns of who the buyers were, which sellers benefited, and how the trade value was calculated to substantiate its claims.
The fair did however see a large increase in visitors this year, with many being mere onlookers
Image Credit: DITP
Looking Ahead
If accurate, these figures elevate the Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair into the ranks of the world’s top four jewelry trade shows, alongside Baselworld, Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair, and JCK Las Vegas. The next edition, scheduled for February 22 to 26, 2026, is already being promoted with an expanded international zone of more than 250 booths. Yet the credibility of DITP’s statistics remains under scrutiny, and industry stakeholders are watching closely. For Thailand’s jewelry sector, trust and transparency are as important as impressive numbers, and whether the official narrative truly reflects the business reality will determine confidence moving forward.
For the latest on the recent 72nd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair, keep on logging to Bangkok Gems News.
