21 March 2018
Published also in Business Mirror
LOCAL jewelry makers who participated in a recently held jewelry show in Hong Kong generated P3.78 million in cash and negotiated sales, as they enhanced presence in overseas markets.
Meycauayan Jewelry Industry Association Inc. Chairman Cecille Ramos said the Hong Kong international jewelry show provided industry players an effective channel for them to connect with large retailers from many countries and regions.
Ramos added they are looking to aggressively penetrate the world market through participation in various international trade fairs to attract more buyers.
“The jewelry industry is an indigenous and labor-intensive industry, but has to make its mark in the world market. It has remained a silent participant of the bustling business activity of the country and was content on serving the domestic market,” she said.
Ramos added the Philippines is the fifth producer of gold in Asia, comprising 46 percent.
She further said Filipinos are noted in the international market for their craftsmanship, as proven with the increased export revenues from Philippine-made products, such as jewelry and other goods like furniture and gifts, toys and housewares.
“Buyers admire our filigree and antique-looking jewelry and, therefore, must be promoted intensively,” she added. “We need three years’ presence in the market to be able to get buyers and penetrate the target market.”