The four-day Hong Kong International Jewelry Show concluded Friday has attracted a total of 26,753 buyers from 136 countries and regions, up 7.39 percent when compared to the jewelry show in 2004.

According to a press release from the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, in addition to local and mainland buyers, most of the buyers are from the United States, Chinese mainland, Japan, Thailand, the Philippines, South Korea, Australia, India and Italy.

According to an independent industry survey conducted by Oracle, during the Show, industry players are optimistic on jewelry exports in 2005.

Jewelers expect a 10 percent increase in sales growth this year. They also expect a bullish growth of 16 percent in sales growth in emerging markets, such as the Chinese mainland, Russia, India and Eastern Europe.

A total of 427 exhibitors and 716 buyers from around the world joining the show were interviewed. Most of the respondents (88 percent) said the global jewelry market in 2005 would be better than or same as that in 2004 - a year that Hong Kong experienced a19 percent growth in jewelry exports.

Over 66 percent of overseas buyers said Hong Kong and southern China are their most preferred souring region as it provides a wide variety of quality goods and is located adjacently. Jewelry buyers are impressed by Hong Kong's design, craftsmanship and quality.

On product trends, the survey indicated that "simplicity" and "classic" style are preferred, while heart and floral pattern are expected to be popular in 2005.

Consumer segments with highest growth potential: executives, professional and office ladies, and housewives aged 35 or above.

Fastest growing Jewelry category: ring is regarded as the fastest growing product category in 2005, followed by necklace and earrings.

In 2004, Hong Kong exported US$2.58 billion worth of Jewelry to the world. Hong Kong International Jewelry Show 2005, the largest ever, featured 1,546 exhibitors from 40 countries and regions.

(Xinhua News Agency March 5, 2005)