RP jewelry sector a world-class supplier – Roxas

Trade and Industry Secretary Manuel Roxas II revealed yesterday that the Philippine jewelry sector is becoming a "world class" supplier of fine gems and jewelry in the international market.

According to Roxas, the Philippine jewelry sector is gaining headway in the international market place as it pursues bilateral arrangements and promotional efforts with several countries to further boost the sector’s global competitiveness.

Philippine Commercial Attache Rosalie Evangelista recently reported to Roxas about the Philippines’ participation in the prestigious Italian jewelry trade fair VicenzaOro 1 and VicenzaOro 2 in Vicenza, Italy.

The Philippines’ participation in the two jewelry trade fairs, Evangelista reported, resulted in sales amounting to $457,563.

More particularly, Evangelista said, $326,336 worth of sales were booked and negotiated during the VicenzaOro I jewelry trade fair, while $131,227 worth of sales were booked during the VicenzaOro 2 jewely trade fair.

The sales, Evangelista said, would be realized in six months time.

The Philippines joined 27 other countries during the two international jewelry trade fairs.

Six members of the Guild of Philippine Jewellers, Inc. joined the exhibition, namely Seven Castles Inc., Sanara Inc., Ilois Jewellers, Subic Inc., Mercelles, New Life Jewelry and Jewelmer.

According to Roxas, gems and jewelry, which belong to the wearables sectors, are among of the 10 priority sectors identified with the Philippine Export Development Plan and are expected to bring in significant growth to the country’s exports.