– Strategic dialogues, new partnerships, and cross-border business highlight AGJA’s regional leadership at JGAB

The ASEAN Gems and Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) proudly hosted the inaugural Jewellery & Gem ASEAN Summit at the Jewellery & Gem ASEAN Bangkok (JGAB) 2025, held April 23–26 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC). This historic summit, the first of its kind, brought together over 150 delegates from ASEAN member countries and strategic international partners including mainland China, Hong Kong, and Japan.

Held under the theme “Collaboration Across Borders: Building ASEAN’s Jewelry Network,” the summit featured three dynamic sessions that tackled emerging challenges, shared national strategies, and laid the groundwork for regional growth and unity.

Session Highlights

Session 1:

Adapting to New U.S. Tariffs and Their Impact on ASEAN Jewelry Trade Industry veterans including Mr. Ermin Siow (Advisor of Federation of Goldsmiths & Jewellers Association of Malaysia, Vice Chairman of AGJA), Mr. Simon Chan (CEO, China Gems & Jade Exchange), and Mr. Victor Chan (Chairman, HKJJA) addressed the implications of recent U.S. import tariffs. They exchanged insights on pricing volatility, shifting buyer patterns, and how ASEAN exporters are adjusting through market diversification, supply chain resilience, and policy adaptation.

Session 2: AGJA-ASEAN Brainstorming to Support Country Partners

Representatives from Malaysia, Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand explored how each country’s jewelry sector is evolving to support the regional supply chain. Discussions focused on OEM manufacturing strength, design innovation, raw material sourcing, and skilled labor development, while highlighting the need for stronger intra-ASEAN trade cooperation.

Session 3: Thailand Insight – Gem Science & Industry Synergy

Led by Dr. Pornsawat Wathanakul and Dr. Bhuwadol Wanthanachaisaeng, the session spotlighted Thailand’s global leadership in colored stone testing, responsible sourcing, and transparency in gemstone treatments. The conversation emphasized how scientific advancement and industry collaboration can strengthen consumer trust and elevate ASEAN standards.

AGJA–CGE MOU Signing: Bridging ASEAN–China Cooperation

The summit also marked a milestone with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between AGJA and the China Gems and Jade Exchange (CGE). The agreement paves the way for stronger trade and investment collaboration between ASEAN and China in areas such as sourcing, exhibitions, and capacity building.

“This partnership signals AGJA’s commitment to opening new doors for our members,” said Mr. Suttipong. “ASEAN’s future in the gem and jewelry trade is not just regional—it’s global.”

OEM Business Matching: Real Trade in Motion

AGJA also spearheaded a high-impact OEM Business Matching Program, designed to convert networking into tangible trade. The program featured 10 premium buyer companies from the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA) and 14 export-ready OEM sellers from AGJA member.

Held in a dynamic speed-networking format, the program enabled sellers to present capabilities directly to buyers in curated rounds. Many of the participating businesses reported promising leads, potential orders, and new partnerships under discussion—setting a strong foundation for cross-border productionalliances and long-term cooperation.

“In a time of global uncertainty, ASEAN must stand united,” Mr. Suttipong stated. “AGJA is committed to strengthening our members and promoting ASEAN as the next global hub for gems and jewelry.”