India and Thailand have formalised new trade collaborations in the gem and jewellery sector through three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed at the Bangkok Gem and Jewelry Fair (BGJF) 2025.
These agreements, signed between leading industry bodies from both countries, focus on trade, certification, and industry cooperation.
Key Agreements Signed
An 18-member delegation from India’s Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), Jewellers Association Jaipur, and Sitapura Gems and Jewellery Industry Association participated in the Bangkok fair from 22–24 February 2025. On the opening day, three MoUs were signed to strengthen industry ties.
The agreements include:
- GJEPC’s Indian Institute of Gems and Jewellery Research and Laboratories Centre (IIGJ-RLC) with the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT) – Aimed at gemstone standardisation, joint research, and knowledge exchange to improve industry practices.
- Jewellers Association Jaipur with Chanthaburi Gem and Jewellery Traders Association – Focused on expanding the coloured gemstone trade and increasing trade opportunities.
- Sitapura Gems and Jewellery Industry Association (SGJIA) with Thai Silver Exporters Association (TSEA) – Intended to support silver jewellery manufacturing and design collaboration.
Trade and Knowledge Exchange Initiatives
The delegation held discussions with GIT Thailand on laboratory certification recognition, joint training initiatives, and exchange programmes for students and faculty. These initiatives aim to improve technical skills and align industry standards between the two countries.
Meetings with the Thai Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (TGJTA) explored developing gemstone sourcing platforms and enhancing coloured gemstone trade. The Thai Silver Exporters Association (TSEA) and Indian representatives discussed potential joint manufacturing projects and design cooperation in silver jewellery.
Industry Leaders on the MoUs
Several key figures from the Indian delegation commented on the significance of the agreements:
- Dr. Nawal Agarwal, Chairman of IIGJ Jaipur and Director of IIGJ-RLC, stated:
“The MoU between IIGJ-RLC and GIT marks a significant step toward harmonising gemstone standardisation, fostering joint research, and enhancing knowledge exchange. By working together, India and Thailand are ensuring higher levels of trust, transparency, and excellence in the global gem and jewellery industry.”
- Alok Sonkhia, President of Jewellers Association Jaipur, said:
“The MoU between Jewellers Association Jaipur and Chanthaburi Gem and Jewelry Traders Association will strengthen the coloured gemstone trade between India and Thailand.” “Through knowledge exchange, expanded trade opportunities, and joint participation in global events, this partnership will enhance market reach, support industry growth, and solidify both nations’ roles as key players in the international gemstone sector.”
- Arvind Gupta, President of Sitapura Gems and Jewellery Industry Association, commented:
“The collaboration between Sitapura Gems and Jewellery Industry Association and Thai Silver Exporters Association will boost the silver jewellery trade by fostering innovation, design excellence, and market expansion.” “This partnership paves the way for greater global recognition of silver jewellery while creating new business opportunities for artisans and exporters in both India and Thailand.”
Trade Fair Participation and Future Collaboration
Both sides also discussed participation in each other’s trade exhibitions. The Indian delegation invited Thai businesses to exhibit at Indian trade shows, including IIJS Mumbai, JAS, and JAGS Jaipur, while encouraging Thai participation in the International Gem & Jewellery Show (Saudijex) in Jeddah this September.
The visit follows a Thai delegation’s trip to Jaipur in November 2024, reflecting continued efforts to expand industry cooperation. Ongoing collaboration in trade, research, and certification is expected to strengthen ties between the Indian and Thai jewellery sectors.
