IIJS PREMIERE SHOW 2023

The 39th edition of IIJS Premiere 2023, organized by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), concluded with an overwhelming response generating its highest-ever business of over Rs. 70,000 crore for the trade. The second largest gem & jewellery fair of the world had 50,000 plus visitors at the two venues of JIO World Convention Centre (3-7 August) and Bombay Exhibition Centre, NESCO, Goregaon (4-8 August).

The paperless and fully digital IIJS Premiere accommodated 3,250 stalls and welcomed 1,850 exhibitors, spread over an expansive area of 70,000+ sq. mtrs of exhibition area across the two venues. The event witnessed more than 2,100 visitors from over 65 countries, including the USA, UK, UAE, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Fiji, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran, Muscat, Italy, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Kuwait, Germany, Turkey, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and many more. The distinguished guest list included hosted delegations from 16 nations, elevating the event to an unparalleled international stature. More than 25 hotels were booked across Mumbai and had 10,000 room nights for the exhibitors and visitors! The event also had an Italian Pavilion at the machinery section and had exhibitors from 7 countries.

The grand show was marked with the distinguished presence of Shri Sunil Barthwal, Commerce Secretary, Department of Commerce; Mr. Mike Hankey, Consul General, Consulate General of USA; Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, IAS, Metropolitan Commissioner, MMRDA; Mr. Paul Rowley, Executive Vice President, Diamond Trading, De Beers Group; Mr. G.R. Radhakrishnan, Managing Director, GRT Jewellers India Pvt. Ltd.; Mr. C K Venkataraman, Managing Director at Titan Company; Mr. G.R. Ananthapadmanabhan, Managing Director, GRT Jewellers India Pvt. Ltd.; along with Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions; Mr. Mitesh Gajera, Co-convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC and Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, Executive Director amongst others.

Pritam @ IIJS Celebrations - Legends of Gem & Jewellery

IIJS Premiere felicitated the luminaries of the Gems & Jewellery industry recognizing their outstanding contributions with their dedication and passion that not only elevated the industry but also inspired generations of craftsmen and entrepreneurs. Post which IIJS witnessed a night of celebration and joy along with renowned singer Pritam who graced the industry with his mesmerizing melodies.

Jewellers for Hope

GJEPC has also helped raise funds for 13 NGOs over the last 7 years, positively impacting millions of lives. GJEPC hosted the 8th edition of its esteemed charity dinner, 'Jewellers for Hope,' at a glittering event, and the proceeds of the charity dinner were donated to Relief Projects India, a leading NGO focussed on women-child centric issues and education. The event was attended by industry leaders and philanthropists where leading actor Vicky Kaushal personally attended this event on behalf of Relief Projects India and spoke about the organisation and the impact it has created in India. Relief Projects India is a dedicated non-profit Trust committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the less fortunate through education, health, and awareness initiatives. The NGO's primary focus lies in addressing critical issues such as female infanticide, foeticide, boy-child preference, and the challenges faced by women and children in rural villages.

Vicky Kaushal said, “I would like to extend many thanks and gratitude to Jewellers for Hope and GJEPC for recognising and supporting a cause which is so close to my heart - Relief Projects India (RPI). I am extremely proud of the work that RPI has put in over the years for their education programme - Mountain View School, which is dedicated on providing quality education and a safe environment to all underprivileged kids in the area. I hope and wish that you all continue your support towards all such noble causes in the years to come as well.”

IIJS introduced an initiative, Innov8 Global, for the first time, facilitating tailored product-specific matchmaking between international buyers and manufacturers. This innovative platform aims to enhance business interactions and foster productive partnerships like never before.

One of the standout highlights was the provision of complimentary transportation services, which included a venue-to-venue shuttle bus running at frequent intervals, along with complimentary food and beverage offerings. Attendees were also delighted with the convenience of transportation between hotels and the venue, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Connectivity was never a concern, as both venues provided complimentary WiFi, ensuring that participants stayed well-connected throughout the event. Additionally, the thoughtful inclusion of complimentary water at both locations kept everyone refreshed and energized during the proceedings.

For exhibitors and visitors in the prime category, the benefits were manifold. From dedicated and priority check-in at the show to streamlined hotel bookings, top-tier directory listings, and preferred car parking, this elevated experience was tailored to make their participation as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

40-Under-40

The IIJS Premiere 2023 witnessed a defining moment as GJEPC 40 Under 40 initiative celebrated exceptional talent and innovation within the industry. This recognition ceremony, moderated by the illustrious Manisha Gupta, Commodities Editor at CNBC TV 18, was graced by influential luminaries as mentors - Mr. Sachin Jain of Forevermark, Ms. Vaishali Banerjee representing PGI, Mr. Colin Shah from Kama Jewelry, and Mr. Bobby Kothari of Jewelex. Also present at the event was Mr. Vipul Shah, Chairman, GJEPC; Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Vice Chairman, GJEPC; Nirav Bhansali, Convener, National Exhibitions, GJEPC; Mr. Sabyasachi Ray, ED, GJEPC. These industry titans, synonymous with brilliance and achievement, lent their aura to this prestigious occasion, igniting inspiration in the emerging leaders of tomorrow.

More than an accolade, the GJEPC 40 Under 40 initiative symbolizes a movement toward innovative synergy, a collaborative symphony of exceptional minds. Chairman Shah elaborated, "The 40 Under 40 initiative is not just about recognizing individual achievements; it is about fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and collective growth." The luminary winners, a beacon of potential and transformation, are poised to shape the future trajectory of the industry, poised to kindle positive change.

In line with its commitment to sustainability and convenience, IIJS Premiere 2023 took a giant leap towards eco-consciousness by going completely paperless. Attendees enjoyed the ease of fully digital badges, making their participation seamless and environmentally friendly.

IIJS Premiere 2023 continues to impress with its remarkable statistics and impressive offerings, bringing together the world's gems and jewellery industry in a dazzling extravaganza that showcases the very best in craftsmanship, innovation, and global connections.