International News
Kagem to recommence focused open-pit mining
Gemfields is pleased to announce that Kagem Mining Limited (‘Kagem’), the emerald mine in Zambia which is 75% owned by Gemfields and 25% owned by the Government of the Republic of Zambia through the Industrial Development Corporation of Zambia (‘IDC’), will shortly recommence a programme of focused open-pit mining to recover more premium emeralds.
As announced on 23 December 2024, alongside other cost cutting measures, Kagem suspended all mining from 1 January 2025 to focus on processing ore from Kagem’s significant ore stockpile utilising the upgraded processing plant.
Emerald production from the processing plant in 2025 so far, in terms of carats recovered, has been in-line with the Company’s expectations, producing a lower proportion of higher-quality or premium emeralds than direct open-pit mining methods.
Kagem’s recent auction results, including the encouraging commercial-quality auction results released on 30 April 2025, has increased management confidence in the current emerald market and the decision has therefore been taken to recommence mining of two key production points in the Chama pit, with minimal waste mining, to recover premium emeralds for Kagem’s future higher-quality auctions. The decision to recommence full scale mining will continue to be assessed as market conditions develop.
International News
73rd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair sets new record with 4.75 Billion Baht in trade value
Over 40,000 visitors from 118 countries propel the fair to its highest trade value since inception.
The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), in collaboration with the Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand (GIT), announced the successful conclusion of the 73rd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair, held from February 22–26, 2026, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC). The event generated total trade value exceeding 4.75 billion baht, the highest since the fair’s inception.
The fair welcomed 40,721 visitors from 118 countries, with international visitors accounting for 61% of total attendance, reaffirming Thailand’s role as a global hub for the gem and jewelry trade. The top five visiting nations included India, Myanmar, China, Japan, and Sri Lanka, whose buyers drove high demand across key categories such as colored stones, silver jewelry, fine jewelry, diamonds, and industry machinery and equipment.
“The success of the 73rd Bangkok Gems & Jewelry Fair reflects the confidence of buyers and industry players worldwide in Thailand’s potential,” said Sunanta Kangvalkulkij, Director-General of DITP. “This event not only set a new record with over 4.75 billion baht in trade value, but it also reinforced Thailand’s vital role as a key global hub for gems and jewelry, even amidst the current challenges of the international economic landscape.”
To accommodate the industry’s growing interest, the 73rd edition expanded its exhibition space to over 53,000 square meters, covering Halls 1–8 and Plenary Halls 1–2. The fair hosted 1,222 companies from 19 countries across 2,794 booths.
The fair was also honored by the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, who presided over the opening ceremony and viewed the “TREASURE OF DREAMS” exhibition. The showcase featured a high-jewelry collection designed by Her Royal Highness and crafted by master Thai artisans, reflecting her commitment to preserving and advancing traditional Thai craftsmanship while promoting Thailand’s jewelry industry on the international stage.
The 74th Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair is scheduled to take place from
September 8–12, 2026, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC).
73rd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair sets new record with 4.75 Billion Baht in trade value
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73rd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair sets new record with 4.75 Billion Baht in trade value
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International News20 minutes ago73rd Bangkok Gems and Jewelry Fair sets new record with 4.75 Billion Baht in trade value
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