The ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) and the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA) proudly marked a milestone collaboration during HKJJA’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, hosting the 2025 AGJA Conference at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on September 18, 2025, during Jewellery & Gem WORLD Hong Kong 2025 by Informa Markets Jewellery. The event drew a strong turnout of international delegates, industry leaders, and innovators, reaffirming ASEAN’s rising importance in the global jewellery sector.
Building Bridges: AGJA–HKJJA Partnership
The conference was a testament to the long-standing relationship between the ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) and the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA), strengthened through years of cooperation and shared vision. With HKJJA’s 60th anniversary as the Diamond Jubilee backdrop, both associations reaffirmed their commitment to mutual growth. The partnership highlighted the synergy between Hong Kong’s role as a global trading hub and ASEAN’s fast-emerging markets — a relationship that promises new opportunities for businesses, suppliers, and designers alike.
Distinguished Leaders and Inspiring Insights
Opening remarks were delivered by Mr. Victor Chan, Chairman of HKJJA; Mr. Benedict Sin, President & Director of HKJJA; and Mr. Suttipong Damrongsakul, President of the ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA), setting the tone for an engaging program.
The first session, moderated by Mr. Lawrence Ma (Founding President, Diamond Federation of Hong Kong), featured insights from Mr. Charles Ho Nai Chuen, BBM (President, Singapore Jewellers Association), Mr. Ermin Siow (Vice Chairman, AGJA; Advisor, Federation of Goldsmiths and Jewellers Associations of Malaysia – FGJAM), Mr. Simon Chan (CEO, China Gems & Jade Exchange), Ms. Le Yen (Vice-President, Vietnam Gemstone Jewelry & Art Crafts Association), and Ms. Teresa Charminia Florencio (Vice Chairman, ASEAN International Committee; Guild of Philippine Jewellers Inc). Their dialogue emphasized opportunities for creating a unified ASEAN jewellery network, drawing on Hong Kong’s global expertise in design and trade alongside ASEAN’s strength in resources, creativity, and emerging consumer markets.
The second session, moderated by Mr. Kent Wong (Chairman, The Jewellers’ and Goldsmiths’ Association of Hong Kong), brought perspectives from Mr. Alan Chan (Chief Brand Officer, Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group) and Mr. Terry Li (Vice General Manager, Tencent Smart Retail). The discussion highlighted how smart digital solutions are reshaping efficiency, growth, and profitability across the industry.
ASEAN: A Market of 600 Million and Growing
ASEAN, home to more than 600 million people — predominantly young and digitally connected — represents one of the most dynamic jewellery markets in the world. Sellers increasingly view ASEAN as a gateway to this expanding consumer base, while buyers recognize the region as a key source of gemstones, raw materials, and design talent. Thailand continues to be a cornerstone for colored gemstones, while Vietnam, Myanmar, and Indonesia further strengthen ASEAN’s resource base.
The region’s tremendous demand for gold also opens doors for new designs, bridging heritage and modernity to cater to evolving consumer tastes. With strong participation, inspiring dialogue, and a shared commitment to collaboration, the ASEAN Gems & Jewellery Trade Association (AGJA) and the Hong Kong Jewellery & Jade Manufacturers Association (HKJJA) have underscored ASEAN’s position as a driver of the global jewellery industry. The success of this event reflects not only history but also the promise of a vibrant and interconnected future for the jewellery community worldwide.
The closing speech of Ms. Karen Li, Vice-chairman of HKJJA, Head of Organising Committee (2025 AGJA Conference)
Distinguished guests, esteemed delegates, and friends,
As we come to the close of this remarkable gathering, I’d like to leave you with five words—that define our success today and the future: A-S-E-A-N. While we know what ASEAN stands for, I made a creative re-interpretation.
A for Aspiration —We aspire each other to elevate our industry.
S for Synergy — the magic that happens when great minds meet.
E for Empowerment — we empowering each other to thrive.
A for Advancement— not just in technology or design, but in mindset.
N for a New Chapter — AGJA is more than a platform—it is a promise. A promise to stay connected and to grow together.ASEAN — Aspiring synergy to empower advancement new chapter
Let us leave here not with goodbyes, but with goals. Let us return to our countries not just inspired, but activated. And let us move forward united in purpose and passion.
Thank you for your presence, your insights, and your belief in what we can achieve—together.
Articles about AGJA:
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