2. Speeches
Brief Remarks by MOS Alvin Tan at Singapore International Jewellery Expo 2024
11 July 2024
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Mr Ho Nai Chuen, President, Singapore Jewellers Association
H.E. Dante Brandi, Ambassador, Embassy of Italy in Singapore
Dr Ilaria Cicero, CEO, Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) Asia
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Introduction
1. Thank you for inviting me to the 19th edition of the Singapore International Jewellery Expo (SIJE) 2024.
2. Next year is a milestone and landmark year on the 20th edition of the show, as it will coincide with the 60th year of Singapore independence.
3. As the jewellery industry, it is your expertise to turn uncut gems into glittering treasure. We have also been shaping Singapore into a leading MICE destination for the region and the world.
4. The 19th SIJE we are hosting is a crown jewel among our line-up of international events. Please come back time and time again. We hope this will be a sparkling experience for our delegates and guests.
5. Many of us know that diamonds are forged under pressure. And only by bracing through pressure and storms such as the pandemic, can diamonds emerge brighter and more lustrous.
6. The jewellery industry is a prime example – collectively, the Jewellery & Watches segment recorded S$4.8 billion in operating receipts in 2022, an increase of ~60% from 2020, and this has surpassed pre-pandemic levels.[1] It is not a surprise, given the universal appeal of jewellery, and the industry’s resilience and growth prospects.
Supporting Local Jewellers
7. These shining prospects are reflected in the success of today’s event. Congratulations to Italian Exhibition Group (IEG) for a record-surpassing SIJE 2024. We are featuring over 320 companies and brands from 30 countries, and over S$250 million worth of exquisite collections.
8. There are also prominent local brands at SIJE 2024 flying Singapore’s flag high all over the world. Ilaria mentioned about Simone Jewels, and I also want to talk about Simone Jewels in detail.
a. Simone Jewels has been consistently featured in both local and international lifestyle media, including Harper’s Bazaar and Tatler Asia. Its products have also been adorned by many celebrities we know like Rihanna, Taylor Swift, and also Lady Gaga. After a successful showcase at Harrods in London in 2020, Simone Jewels has continued to strengthen its presence in well-established Western markets.
9. SIJE is also an effective platform for young local brands to showcase themselves to an increasing international audience.
a. For example, Pearly Lustre is making its debut at SIJE this year, specialising in bespoke pearl jewellery. Pearly Lustre was established in 2020, and it was one of many local brands featured and showcased in Design Orchard, an integrated retail and incubation space dedicated primarily to groom local designers. Since then, Pearly Lustre has grown to establish its own standalone boutique at 313 Somerset, providing a wide range of pearl jewellery to its growing customer base.
b. To our young local brands, the world is your oyster, and we will keep providing platforms for you like today to showcase your craft, design and jewellery to shine on the global stage.
10. Singapore Jewellers Association (SJA) plays a key role in polishing our jewellery industry. Besides providing updates to members on regulatory changes, SJA has signed an MOU with NTUC U SME to support businesses and help their workforce transform. SJA also continues to provide seminars for the community and is working with Gemological Institute of America on an upcoming seminar to enhance the knowledge on gems among retailers here.
11. With strong partnership between the Singapore Government, SJA and our local jewellers, there will be many more success stories of our local brands dazzling on the international stage.
SIJE as a Global Platform
12. SIJE also serves as an important platform for other countries to showcase their heritage across the world. Later on, I will launch the Indonesia Pavilion. Terima Kasih banyak to our Indonesian jewellers for bringing your pearls of white, gold and wisdom on your craft! I will also be visiting the Sri Lankan Pavilion as well.
13. I would also like to thank Italian Trade Agency and Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for your continuous support. The Italian Pavilion at this year’s SIJE will feature 14 Italian companies. There are also many other independent ones that are outside of the 14 companies. One which I have walked past is Zydo, which has been with SIJE for over 15 editions. I’m sure SIJE will continue to be a platform for Italian brands to reach the growing demand in Asia for luxury goods.
Conclusion
14. Congratulations again to all of you – IEG and all participants for your contributions to this sparkling showcase. Your efforts and dedication to our jewellery industry sparkle through every facet of the gems on display today.
15. I hope this will be a platform for all of you to showcase your craft, gain new insights and exchange ideas on the emerging trends.
16. I wish all participants a brilliant time at SIJE 2024. And I wish all of you an even more sparkling 20th edition of the show next year. Thank you.
[1] https://www.singstat.gov.sg/data-for-businesses/know-my-industry-retail-trade