* Antwerp takes the lead in growth
This year presents new opportunities for the diamond industry, as the market witnesses price stability, better business dynamics in emerging markets and signs of a gradual economic recovery in the US. Antwerp, the world’s largest diamond trading hub, is gearing up to capture growth opportunities and meet new challenges in the coming months. Envisioning the future development of the diamond industry, the Antwerp World Diamond Centre recently launched the Antwerp Diamond Masterplan – Diamonds love Antwerp 2020.

* Strong retail sales growth in Greater China
The Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Agreement is boosting tourism between China and Hong Kong. This directly benefits the jewellery retail industry in the region, industry members said. In 2011, visitor arrivals to Hong Kong reached a record high of 41.9 million, up 16.4 percent compared to the year-ago figure. Mainland Chinese arrivals totalled 28 million, posting a year-on-year growth of more than 20 percent. In separate interviews with JNA, four Hong Kong-based retailers offered their insights on how they are growing their market share.

* Turkish gold glitters at Istanbul Fair
The 34th edition of the Istanbul Jewellery Show (IJS) delivered positive results, with gold jewellery dominating onsite transactions, according to exhibitors of the four-day event that opened on March 21 at CNR Expo. The trade show, which featured more than 1,000 exhibitors from 24 countries and regions, was the largest edition in its history, said fair  organiser UBM Rotaforte. It attracted over 30,000 buyers, who navigated the five halls for the latest in jewellery designs, loose diamonds and gemstones, as well as tools and equipment.